Red Clydeside

Question 1

There was growing support that the working week of 54 hours needed to be reduced.

Answer 1

This resulted in the campaign at the Clydeside which was perceived to be a ‘Russian revolution’. This led to the Clyde Workers Committee suggesting a 30 hour week however it was agreed on a 40 hour. This was a success for the workers as they got to work less, but a failure for the employers as they had to pay wages when fewer hours were worked.

Question 2

The cost of living in Glasgow doubled using the war, while the wages failed to keep pace.

Answer 2

This is significant as it increased the hardship for working-class families and fuelled anger towards the government and emplpyers, contributing to the growth of the workers’ movement on the Red Clydeside.

Question 3

The 1919 George Square riots were met with extreme government response including sending tanks into the city.

Answer 3

This is significant as it shows how seriously the government viewed the threat of industrial unrest and political radicalism, linking it to a fear of russian revolution.

Question 4

The ‘Red Clydeside’ refers to political and industrial unrest in Glasgow during and after WW1.

Answer 4

In 1919, 60000 workers went on strike in Glasgow demanding a 40 hour work week. This is significant because it reflected the governments fear of communist-style revolution like russia hence the ‘red’