Discover the captivating history of the New Zealand Seamen's Union in 'Jagged Seas: The New Zealand Seamen's Union 1879-2003' by David Grant. This comprehensive book provides an in-depth look at the evolution of maritime labor, detailing how the union played a pivotal role in shaping the seafaring industry from its inception in 1879 until its merger with the Waterside Workers' Union in 2003, forming the Maritime Union of New Zealand. Across 376 engaging pages, Grant meticulously explores the significant changes that affected seamen's working lives, and the history of union practices. Readers will find a narrative rich in detail that portrays the union's tireless struggle to secure better conditions for its members amidst often harsh realities, especially during the early years. Covering monumental industrial disputes of 1890, 1913, and 1951, this book highlights the essence of class solidarity forged through decades of collective action against capital and broader social movements, including opposition to the Vietnam War and apartheid policies. Grant offers a balanced perspective, challenging the common labels of militancy, presenting a moderated union approach to political and industrial affairs. Ideal for historians, labor studies enthusiasts, and anyone interested in New Zealand's maritime history, 'Jagged Seas' is an essential addition to your collection. Enjoy reliable delivery from Smartfox NZ, where we are proudly NZ owned and located in Auckland. This book is in stock within New Zealand, ensuring no unexpected import charges, customs duty, or tax, alongside combined shipping options for your convenience.

CONDITION: Brand New

Pages: 376

Author: David Grant Publisher: Canterbury University Press
Publication Date: 01-03-2012

From humble beginnings in 1879 until the time it merged with the Waterside Workers' Union in 2003 to become the Maritime Union of New Zealand, the New Zealand Seamen's Union played an integral and essential role in this country's seafaring industry. Labour historian David Grant traverses the huge changes that have occurred in the working lives of seamen, and union practice, through these years. He portrays a union that was assertive and volatile but always steeped in never-ending struggle to win jobs for its members and to better their lives, which were often grim, particularly in the early years. The Seamen's Union was integrally involved in the country's biggest industrial disputes - in 1890, 1913 and 1951. In these and lesser quarrels class solidarity became a byword for its existence, hewn by decades of collective struggle with kin unions against the forces of capital - alongside participation in political struggles such as opposition to the Vietnam War, nuclear ship visits and apartheid in South Africa. Nonetheless, Grant eschews the labels 'militant' and 'irresponsible', which are often levelled at the union, instead arguing that the union has in fact been moderate and considered in all its political and industrial activity.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.