Ronald Reagan and the Firing of the Air Traffic Controllers

Discover the pivotal moment in American labor history with Ronald Reagan and the Firing of the Air Traffic Controllers by Andrew Busch, published by the University Press of Kansas in 2024. This insightful book delves into the dramatic events of August 3, 1981, when over 12,000 members of the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization (PATCO) walked off the job, demanding higher pay, shorter hours, and improved benefits. In a surprising turn, President Reagan chose to fire the strikers, prosecute their leaders, and decertify their union, a decision that profoundly influenced his presidency and the future of labor relations in the United States. Spanning 180 pages, Busch's thorough analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the implications of this historic strike and its lasting impact on American politics and economics. Perfect for readers interested in labor history, political science, and Reagan's legacy, this book is a must-have for your collection.