Introduction

This free book sheds light on one of the most controversial and popular topics in American pop culture: organizing by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Union (IBT). With the American Labor Movement in its current weakened condition and the majority of the American public lacking a thorough labor education grounded in reality, the time is ripe for an exciting and comprehensive work to spark interest in the Labor Movement itself, popular struggle and the fight for economic justice.
The History of Teamster Organizing has tremendous potential to take on that role. Readers will embark on a journey covering not only Jimmy Hoffa’s start and rise as an organizer, but several larger than life personalities, past and present, from the union’s storied 111 year history.

It is not common knowledge that the IBT existed before the 1903 when two previously competitive unions were persuaded by the American Federation of Labor to combine into one. Readers will be treated to a history that actually started in 1899 when organizers worked with Barnum and Bailey Circus performers to improve their standard of living.

In addition to a general timeline of the methods and principles that make up the Teamster organizing model, there will be vivid descriptions of the key victories that gave the union its reputation for having the most exciting organizing program in the United States. This book is still in progress so feel free to make suggestions and share comments. I will release one chapter per week, or every ten views. I may regret saying that as so far I've had to release almost 8 chapters in one day.