Final answer:
The mistreatment and unfair working conditions faced by the Pullman porters led them to form a labor union and fight for better rights. A significant event in this fight was the establishment of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (BSCP) led by A. Philip Randolph. Issues such as low wages, long working hours, rules, and racial discrimination contributed to their decision to unionize.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Pullman porters were African American workers employed by the Pullman Company to provide service on sleeping cars. Several issues led the Pullman porters to decide to form a labor union to fight for their rights and fair treatment in the early 20th century. One of the main issues was the low wages they received, which were often supplemented through tips from passengers. They also faced long working hours, stringent rules, racial discrimination, and limited career advancement opportunities.
One significant event that played a role in the porters' decision to unionize was the 1925 Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (BSCP) campaign led by A. Philip Randolph. With the establishment of the BSCP, the porters gained collective bargaining power and a platform to address their grievances.
Overall, the mistreatment and unfair working conditions faced by the Pullman porters, coupled with the efforts of leaders like A. Philip Randolph and the BSCP, propelled them to organize and fight for better rights, pay, and working conditions.
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