The First Strike in History
In the year 1152 BC, a remarkable event unfolded in ancient Egypt that would leave an enduring mark on labor history. The workers engaged in building a royal necropolis, notably in Deir el-Medina, decided to go on strike, making them among the first recorded strikers in history. These laborers, responsible for constructing the final resting places of pharaohs and nobility, had been subjected to harsh working conditions and inadequate wages.
Their collective action proved to be a pivotal moment. Rather than suppressing the strike, the authorities surprisingly chose to negotiate, recognizing the importance of skilled labor in completing these prestigious projects. As a result, the workers were granted higher wages and improved conditions, leading to their return to the construction sites.