Books by "Mother Jones"
3 books found
In "The Autobiography of Mother Jones," the iconic labor activist recounts her extraordinary life, intertwining personal narratives with the broader social and political upheavals of the early 20th century. Written in a candid, emotive style, this autobiography captures the fervor of the labor movement as Mother Jones, affectionately known as the "most dangerous woman in America," champions the rights of workers and fights against child labor and corporate greed. Her storytelling not only reflects individual struggle but also serves as a passionate call to collective action, set against the backdrop of a rapidly industrializing society during a pivotal period of American history. Mother Jones, born Mary Harris Jones, emerged from humble beginnings in Ireland before settling in the United States, where personal tragedies and social injustices galvanized her commitment to labor rights. Her experiences as a union organizer, particularly her involvement in the AFL-CIO and various strikes, imbue her writing with authenticity and urgency. As an influential figure in social activism, her dedication to improving the lives of working-class Americans shaped her worldview and contributed to her fierce advocacy. This autobiographical account is essential reading for anyone interested in labor history, social justice, and the enduring struggle for workers' rights. Mother Jones's resilience and unwavering spirit illuminate the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, making her story both a historical document and a source of inspiration for contemporary activists. In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience: - A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes. - The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists. - A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing. - A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings. - Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life. - Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance. - Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.
The Autobiography of Mother Jones recounts, in a brisk, plainspoken idiom burnished by oratorical fire, the epic geography of American labor conflict at the turn of the twentieth century. From the coal fields of West Virginia and Colorado to the 1903 March of the Mill Children and the Ludlow aftermath, Jones narrates organizing tactics, jailings, and camp-life with an eye for moral drama and institutional detail. The book belongs to Progressive Era labor testimony, yet its maternal persona and jeremiad cadences give it a distinctive fusion of memoir, travelogue, and political indictment. Born in Ireland and remade in the United States, Mary Harris 'Mother' Jones endured losses that radicalized her politics: the death of her husband and four children in a Memphis yellow fever epidemic and the destruction of her Chicago dress shop in the Great Fire. She became a peripatetic organizer for the United Mine Workers, earning the epithet 'the most dangerous woman in America.' Shaped in collaboration with journalist Mary Field Parton, the narrative preserves Jones's cadence while foregrounding a lifetime of disciplined agitation. A vital primary source, this book rewards scholars and general readers seeking firsthand insight into labor organizing, political rhetoric, women's leadership, and American democracy. Quickie Classics summarizes timeless works with precision, preserving the author's voice and keeping the prose clear, fast, and readable—distilled, never diluted. Enriched Edition extras: Introduction · Synopsis · Historical Context · Brief Analysis · 4 Reflection Q&As · Editorial Footnotes.