Today in Labor History October 11, 1865: Hundreds of black men and women, led by preacher Paul Bogle, marched in Jamaica, starting the Morant Bay rebellion. The former slaves rose in rebellion against injustice and poverty. Most were prevented from voting by high poll taxes. Recently, living conditions had worsened because of floods, cholera and smallpox epidemics, and a long drought. When the militia killed seven men, the protesters attacked and burned the courthouse and nearby buildings. Twenty-five people died. Bogle was arrested and charged with inciting to riot. The governor declared martial law, ordering troops to hunt down the rebels. They killed at least 400 more people, including women and children. They arrested over 300. Many of them were innocent, but nonetheless convicted and executed.
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