The Jarrow March and its Impact
The Jarrow march may not have achieved its immediate objectives but the effort of the men and the constant publicity that it received shaped new public attitudes. They led to a national mood of discontent, which in turn formed the basis for the 1945 Labour landslide and the creation of the welfare state and the NHS.
The Beginnings of the March
The march began in early October 1936 when 200 fit men – nicknamed the Jarrow crusaders – embarked on a 300-mile walk from the North East town of Jarrow to London. They were led by their MP Ellen Wilkinson, who urged them to do something about the poverty and inequality that had been threatening their town for decades.
The Context of the March
At the time, Britain was racked by widespread unemployment. Across the country, 'hunger marches' were organised by the National Unemployed Workers' Movement (NUWM), which raised the spectre of revolution and was regarded as an enemy by powerful political forces. The Jarrow crusade sought to distinguish itself from these, and the organizers ensured that no communists took part, winning support from local Conservatives.
The Struggles of Jarrow
In Jarrow, there was a shipyard that had been operating since the late 19th century, but it had closed down in the 1920s due to mismanagement and changing world trade conditions. Plans to build a new steelworks to replace it were frustrated by employers’ organisations.
A Plea for Help
As poverty and unemployment rose, Jarrow’s council and civic leaders decided to send a petition to the House of Commons asking for help to create jobs in the town. It was to be delivered to the Prime Minister, Stanley Baldwin, on November 4, accompanied by Miss Ellen Wilkinson and other members of Jarrow’s council.
An Arrival Filled with Support
They were met at the station by a crowd of supporters, who greeted them warmly. The mayor, the town clerk and other local politicians were among them.
A Noteworthy Expedition
The town hall was packed with people, as was the main street. There were also doctors, a barber and a group of pressmen, and a Labrador dog mascot kept watch over the men’s every move.
Determination Despite Challenges
Some men were ill during the march. Others were hospitalised and many had their teeth removed during the journey. Some even fell ill with heart failure.
The Media's Attention
Despite this, the marchers were able to get the media’s attention, with one newspaper describing the arrival at Parliament as “the best sight in all the country”. The organisers tried to avoid disorder and the participants were supervised by a committee of medical students.
The Legacy of the March
It was a remarkable achievement, and a symbol of a civic spirit that could not be found anywhere else in the country. It was also an example of the endurance and determination that is still required by some workers today.
The Success of the Steelworks
The campaign for a new steel works was a success, however, and the town’s fortunes improved as a result of the project. The success of the steelworks was a major factor in the rise of national anti-semitism and the rise of fascist and right-wing sentiment.
