Background and key players
In 1919, the city of Boston faced an unusual situation where its police department went on an indefinite strike demanding the right to affiliate with the American Federation of Labor and for enhanced remuneration. In the decade before, the Boston Police Department’s officers received reasonable remunerations up to $1400 per year. The salaries graded according to the rank and position of the individual. The economic conditions were supportive for police officers to lead a reasonable lifestyle. However, all of that changed with the First World War. The years immediately following the end of the war were particularly hard ...