Meaning: Mary Jones was a prominent labor and community organizer in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She was an influential figure in the labor movement, particularly known for her involvement in the struggles of workers in the Western United States. The quote you provided reflects her experience as an activist and her participation in the strike of the machinists against the Southern Pacific Railroad.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Southern Pacific Railroad was a powerful and influential corporation that held significant control over California's economy and politics. The railroad company played a central role in the development of the American West, and its operations had a profound impact on the lives of workers, farmers, and communities in the region.

Mary Jones' decision to "go West" and participate in the strike of the machinists exemplifies her commitment to standing in solidarity with workers and challenging the exploitative practices of powerful corporations like the Southern Pacific Railroad. Her involvement in the strike reflects the broader social and economic tensions of the time, as workers sought to improve their working conditions and push back against the influence of corporate interests.

The quote also highlights the multifaceted control that the Southern Pacific Railroad exerted over various aspects of Californian society. By referring to the corporation as one that "swung California by its golden tail" and "controlled its legislature, its farmers, its preachers, its workers," Mary Jones draws attention to the far-reaching influence of the railroad company. This characterization underscores the immense power and influence that large corporations wielded during this period, often at the expense of workers' rights and economic justice.

Mary Jones' activism and participation in the machinists' strike exemplify her dedication to challenging corporate power and advocating for the rights of workers. Her involvement in labor struggles and her efforts to mobilize communities against corporate exploitation left a lasting impact on the labor movement in the Western United States. Through her work, she sought to empower workers and bring attention to the unjust practices of powerful corporations like the Southern Pacific Railroad.

In conclusion, the quote by Mary Jones provides insight into the challenges faced by workers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the context of the powerful influence of corporations like the Southern Pacific Railroad. Mary Jones' activism and her participation in the strike of the machinists exemplify her commitment to standing in solidarity with workers and challenging the exploitative practices of powerful corporations. Her work continues to inspire and inform efforts to advocate for workers' rights and economic justice.