Meaning: The quote "Then came a big strike. About 100 girls went out. The result was a victory, which netted us - I mean the girls - $2 increase in our wages on the average." by Rose Schneiderman, an activist, captures the spirit of labor organizing and the struggles faced by workers, particularly women, in the early 20th century. Rose Schneiderman was a prominent figure in the labor movement, known for her efforts to improve working conditions and wages for women in the garment industry.

In order to fully understand the significance of this quote, it's important to provide some context about the time period in which it was written. The late 19th and early 20th centuries were marked by rapid industrialization and urbanization in the United States. This period also saw the rise of factory work, particularly in industries such as textiles and garments, where a large number of women were employed. These women often faced long hours, low wages, and unsafe working conditions.

In response to these challenges, workers began to organize and advocate for their rights. Strikes and labor actions became common as workers sought to improve their working conditions and secure better pay. The quote by Rose Schneiderman reflects the success of one such labor action, where about 100 girls participated in a strike that ultimately led to a victory and a $2 increase in their wages on average.

The significance of this victory cannot be understated. For many of these women, the $2 increase represented a significant improvement in their standard of living. It also demonstrated the power of collective action and solidarity among workers. By coming together and standing up for their rights, these women were able to achieve tangible improvements in their lives and working conditions.

Rose Schneiderman herself played a crucial role in the labor movement, advocating for women's rights and better working conditions. As a prominent activist, she was instrumental in bringing attention to the plight of women workers and in mobilizing support for their cause. Her quote reflects not only the outcome of a specific labor action but also the broader struggles and triumphs of women in the workforce during this period.

In conclusion, the quote by Rose Schneiderman highlights the power of collective action and the resilience of women workers in the face of difficult and often exploitative working conditions. It serves as a reminder of the importance of labor organizing and the enduring legacy of activists like Schneiderman who fought for the rights of workers, particularly women, in the early 20th century.