Silkstone Uprising

The Silkstone Uprising was a labour rights movement that arose in Floria in 1741.14 following a catastrophic explosion at the Silkstone Manufacturing Complex. The event led to widespread protests, labour strikes, and a national outcry over substandard working conditions, unsafe labor practices, and corporate negligence. The movement ultimately resulted in sweeping labour reforms and a shift in Florian labour rights policies.

Background

The Silkstone Manufacturing Complex was a major electronics factory located in the state of Pentucky producing components for tech companies. The factory was notorious for its unsafe working conditions, long shifts, and exploitation of workers. By 1741, it was estimated that over 12 million Florians worked in similar factories across the country, many of them enduring unsafe conditions and substandard wages. Despite repeated calls for better treatment, factory owners often ignored worker safety.

The Catalyst: Silkstone Explosion

In 1741.14, a chemical explosion at the Silkstone Manufacturing Complex killed over 200 workers and injured hundreds more. The explosion was attributed to neglected safety protocols and a lack of proper maintenance. In the aftermath, the owners of the company downplayed the severity of the disaster and blamed workers for the incident. Families of the victims were offered minimal compensation.

The explosion caused a wave of public outrage, particularly when it became clear that the company had cut corners on safety to maximize profits.

The Worker’s Strike and National Protests

In response to the explosion, workers at the factory and several other factories across the region launched a nationwide strike. The strike was not only about the disaster but also about broader grievances related to labour exploitation, including unsafe conditions, long working hours, and low wages. The protests spread quickly to other industries and cities across Floria, with unions and grassroots organisations joining the cause.

One of the largest protests took place in Northcliff, with over one million people demanding corporate accountability, worker safety, and justice for the victims of the Silkstone explosion.

Government Intervention and the Labor Justice Act

Faced with mounting pressure, President Michael Hutchinson and Congress introduced the National Labour Protection Act.

Aftermath

In the aftermath of the disaster, Silkstone Manufacturing suffered a major financial collapse. The company’s executives faced charges of criminal negligence, and several were sentenced to prison. The company was forced to pay restitution to victims’ families, and its operations were suspended indefinitely.