Molly Maguires

The Molly Maguires were a clandestine society of Irish miners who engaged in a violent confrontation with Pennsylvania mining companies in the 19th century.

Related Topics:
Irish - Miner - Pennsylvania

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The organization was formed in 1843 in Ireland and continued its activity in America. Although a legitimate self-help organization for Irish immigrants existed in the form of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, the Molly Maguires existed as a secret organization behind this front. Both groups fought discrimination against Irish and Catholics. In the case of the Mollies, the fight took the form of violence and destruction, mimicking the attacks against English landlords in Ireland. The group's name came from a widow named Molly Maguire, who had led anti-landlord agitators in the 1840s. She may, however, only be a legendary figure.

Related Topics:
1843 - America - Ancient Order of Hibernians - Catholic - Ireland

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They were forced to disband in 1877 after being in existence for about thirty years because, in an effort commissioned by Reading Railroad president Franklin B. Gowen (who was also at the time the most influential mine owner in the area), Pinkerton National Detective Agency agents infiltrated the organization and informed on the activities of the members.

Related Topics:
1877 - Reading Railroad - Franklin B. Gowen - Pinkerton National Detective Agency

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