World Music

This week on MinneCulture, producer Britt Aamodt explores The Mesabi Iron Range Strike of 1907. At the turn of the last century, Minnesota’s Iron Range was a cauldron of ethnicities and languages. From 1892 to 1914, more than 40 different ethnic groups immigrated there from the Old World, converging on one of the richest iron lodes in history.

In 1907, a large-scale labor strike erupted on the Mesabi Range, led primarily by immigrant Finns. The strike raised questions about whether laborers had the right to strike for liveable wages, eight-hour work days and fair work practices.

Though ultimately unsuccessful, the strike broke down cultural barriers and united miners under the common banner of organized labor. In our next segment, KFAI producer Britt Aamodt talks with historian Rhoda Gilman, Pam Brunfelt and Peter Rachleff.

Guided by Voices, Sawtooth Bluegrass Band, Beausoleil avec Michael Doucet, Fatoumata Diawara and The Valdons were just some of our soundtrack this morning. We went many places to bring new music to our Monday and set us up for a busy week in the clubs. RIP George Jones.