This book offers a new perspective on the relationship between trade unions and the state in the period 1910-21. Using a range of primary sources it explores the constraints placed by industrial conflict on both state and trade union action. It aims to contribute to and clarify some of the main issues raised by the Rank and Filist debate through an analysis of the sources from which state industrial relations policy derived for the whole of this period.

Presents a theory to analyse industrial conflict integrates industrial relations theory social psychology, economics, political science and sociology. Includes four case studies to illustrate the use of the integrative theory as a tool for the analysis of conflict: The Charleston hospital strike; a West Virginia mine war; a strike of Minnesota Community College teachers; and the mass organization of workers in the 1930s and 1960s.