the Pinkerton's are American independent police force. that was founded in 1850 by Allan Pinkerton.
They were called "scabs" Because they are, in the 13th century to mean a nasty, itchy skin disease or the crust that forms on a wound.
What happened to them? : The company has continued to exist in various forms through to the present day, and is now a division of the Swedish security company Securitas AB, operating as "Pinkerton Consulting & Investigations, Inc.
Which side would you have supported and why? I would support the Pinkerton's because they gained a ruthless reputation for protecting the interests of capital by any means necessary
Hope that answers your question :)