The Molly Maguires are unique in history because there is so much controversy and mystery surrounding their existence. In fact, even their actual existence is suspect to some historians and scholars, “There is still controversy over the guilt of the men-and, in fact, whether the Mollies even existed” (Hower 1). Aside from the debate in some circles over whether or not they even existed is also the debate entailing whether or not they were an original labor movement formed by immigrant Irish in Pennsylvania or a natural extension of a labor group with the same name originating in Ireland. Adding to these debates is whether they were a heroic group of immigrants fighting for the working man or a murderous and rebellious politically-motivated group of rebels trying to thwart big business. What is known is that violent acts rose during the 1870s in the coal towns of Pennsylvania where the Molly Maguires were supposedly located, although their guilt or innocence remains a matter of opinion to this day for reasons to be investigated as this research unfolds, “The guilt of the Molly Maguires has been a subject of debate for more than a century. Were they working men struggling to support their families and improve their working conditions? Or were they ruthless killers bent on destroying the wealthy class they believed held them hostage with oppression and injustice?”, (Heyer 3). This research will cover the causes behind the formation of the Molly Maguires, their influence and impact on U.S. labor relations, and the efforts of one powerful business titan and the Pinkerton Detective Agency to bring them to the gallows for alleged violent acts including various murders. A conclusion will discuss the lasting achievements of this group of Irish labor rebels.
There were many causes that catalyzed the formation of the Molly Maguires. There were two main push-pull factors that were responsible for bringing a high percentage of...