Labor organizing in the ancient world is a practice that dates back centuries, as seen in the earliest recorded strike in 1157 BCE in the Ancient Egyptian artisan’s village of Deir el-Medina. Professor and public historian Sarah E. Bond sheds light on this historical phenomenon in a recent episode of the Hyperallergic Podcast. Bond emphasizes that the lack of attention given to the laborers of Ancient Egypt and Rome is not solely due to the predominantly White and male field of Classics, but also to the wealthy authors who often depicted striking workers as “rioters.”
Recent studies have revealed that the economic prosperity and artistic achievements of the ancient world heavily relied on the collective efforts of millions of enslaved individuals working across the Mediterranean. In fact, during the peak of the Roman Empire, 20–25% of the population was enslaved. This reliance on forced labor was often supported by influential figures like Aristotle, who advocated for the continuation of slavery.
One of the earliest known records of a strike is the Turin Strike Papyrus from Deir el Medina, dating back to the reign of King Ramesses III. This document showcases the organized efforts of workers in ancient times to demand better working conditions and fair treatment. Bond’s book, “Strike: Labor, Unions, and Resistance in the Roman Empire,” delves into various instances of labor unrest, from women textile workers protesting in Ancient Egypt to the brutal suppression of protesters in the Constantinople hippodrome by the emperor and empress.
Bond also draws parallels between ancient labor struggles and contemporary issues, such as the devaluation of human labor by modern technocrats. She highlights how figures like Mark Zuckerberg draw inspiration from Ancient Roman stoicism, leading to a detached view of human labor and its worth. This intersection of past and present labor movements underscores the enduring relevance of organized resistance against exploitation and injustice.
To delve deeper into the fascinating history of labor organizing in the ancient world, tune in to the Hyperallergic Podcast on Apple Podcasts or any other podcast platform. For a visual accompaniment to the discussion, the complete video with images of artworks can be found on YouTube. Join the conversation on the timeless struggle for labor rights and the enduring legacy of ancient workers who paved the way for organized resistance.
