Stuff You Missed in History Class: SYMHC Classics – Coxey's Army

Release Date: March 1, 2025

Introduction

In this classic episode of Stuff You Missed in History Class, hosts Holly Fry and Tracy V. Wilson delve into the fascinating tale of Coxey's Army, the first significant protest march on Washington, D.C., led by Jacob Coxey during the economic turmoil of the late 19th century. This detailed exploration uncovers the motivations, challenges, and enduring legacy of Coxey's bold attempt to address the pressing issues of unemployment and economic instability in America.

Historical Context

The episode sets the stage by outlining the severe economic downturn resulting from the Panic of 1893. Tracy explains, “those are obvious broad strokes” [05:10], highlighting the closure of 500 banks, 15,000 businesses, and 74 railroads. This financial catastrophe plunged countless workers into unemployment without the safety nets we have today. President Grover Cleveland's staunch anti-welfare stance exacerbated the plight of the unemployed, rejecting any form of government assistance.

Jacob Coxey: The Man Behind the March

Jacob Seckler Coxey emerges as a pivotal figure against this backdrop. Born in 1854 in Pennsylvania, Coxey's early life was marked by industriousness, working his way up in various trades before venturing into business ownership. Maria notes, “Coxey was really interested in politics and the economy, even before the panic of 1893” [09:24]. His dedication to labor reform and infrastructure improvement fueled his vision for economic recovery.

The Coxey Plan

Coxey's innovative plan, crystallized in his "Good Roads Bill," sought to address unemployment through large-scale public works projects. He proposed creating jobs by fixing and building roads, funded by non-interest-bearing bonds. Holly summarizes, “his plan was about fair wages and an eight-hour workday to achieve prosperity for the common man and better public works” [10:28]. This ambitious $500 million initiative aimed to revitalize both the economy and the nation’s infrastructure.

Organizing the March

Despite initial skepticism and personal setbacks, including a divorce and strained relationships with neighbors, Coxey remained undeterred. He found an unlikely ally in Carl Brown, a charismatic labor agitator whose flair and oratory skills became instrumental in mobilizing supporters. Maria reflects, “Carl Brown was crucial to the growth of Coxey's support base” [15:46]. Together, they founded the J.S. Coxey Good Roads Association of the U.S. [16:49], setting the stage for a historic protest.

The Journey to Washington D.C.

On March 25, 1894, Coxey led his followers from Massillon, Ohio, embarking on a 35-day, arduous march to the nation's capital. The march attracted a diverse group—from itinerant workers to those deeply committed to Coxey’s cause—though not without challenges. Tracy emphasizes the desperation driving participants: “This was only the second year of what would be a four-year recession, and families were going hungry” [25:08]. The marchers faced logistical issues, such as inconsistent food supplies and harsh weather, which tested their resolve.

Media Coverage and Public Reaction

As Coxey's Army progressed, media attention intensified, often painting the marchers in a negative light. Early optimism gave way to criticism, with newspapers describing the group as “an unwashed army” [27:13]. Carl Brown’s flamboyant appearance and antics, including dressing as Buffalo Bill and later the "Goddess of Liberty," drew both fascination and ridicule. Holly recounts an article highlighting this dual perception: “He explained the gravity of their effort... and then... he got all into a fortune teller” [28:04].

Arrival and Confrontation in Washington D.C.

Upon reaching Washington D.C. on May 1st, Coxey's Army hoped to present their demands directly to Congress. However, their permit to speak on the Capitol steps was denied [35:13]. As they approached the restricted area, tensions escalated. Carl Brown was physically confronted by police, leading to chaos. Tracy describes the scene: “After about 15 minutes of mayhem, it was over and no speeches had been given” [36:19]. The event ended in disarray, with Coxey and his associates facing criminal charges.

Legal Repercussions

Jacob Coxey, Carl Brown, and Christopher Columbus Jones were convicted of carrying illegal banners onto Capitol grounds, resulting in 20-day jail sentences and minimal fines [36:53]. Despite the legal setbacks, the march left an indelible mark on American protest movements. Maria notes the perseverance of some followers who continued their advocacy from Bladensburg, Maryland, even as public interest waned [37:10].

Aftermath and Legacy

Though initially dismissed, Coxey's ideas gained traction over time, influencing future policies such as Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal. Holly reflects on Coxey’s enduring impact: “A lot of those same concepts were part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's new Deal” [38:43]. Jacob Coxey remained active in politics, eventually serving as the mayor of Massillon, Ohio, and running for various offices. His later years were marked by continued entrepreneurial ventures and occasional public protests, though none matched the scale of his original march.

Conclusion

Coxey's Army stands as a testament to the desperate measures taken by ordinary Americans during economic hardship. Jacob Coxey's blend of idealism, perseverance, and unconventional tactics paved the way for future labor movements and government interventions in times of crisis. As Tracy aptly summarizes, “He is one of those eccentric and marvelous characters in history that we don't really get all that much information out about normally” [43:05]. This episode not only revisits a pivotal moment in American history but also underscores the timeless struggle for economic justice and the power of collective action.

Notable Quotes

• Maria Tremarki [05:10]: "Those are obviously broad strokes, but since we have covered this many, many times before, we're just doing the light touch version."

• Jacob Coxey [39:25]: "We stand here today to test these guarantees of our Constitution... I shall rescue the Constitution and resurrect our liberties."

• Maria Tremarki [09:24]: "Coxey was really interested in politics and the economy, even before the panic of 1893."

• Holly Fry [10:28]: "His plan was about fair wages and an eight-hour workday to achieve prosperity for the common man and better public works."

• Maria Tremarki [15:46]: "Carl Brown was crucial to the growth of Coxey's support base."

• Tracy V. Wilson [25:08]: "This was only the second year of what would be a four-year recession, and families were going hungry."

• Holly Fry [28:04]: "He explained the gravity of their effort... and then... he got all into a fortune teller."

• Holly Fry [38:43]: "A lot of those same concepts were part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's new Deal."

Stuff You Missed in History Class continues to bring to life the intriguing and often overlooked events that have shaped our world. Coxey's Army is a vivid example of how desperation can drive innovation and collective action, lessons that remain relevant today.