Once Russell asked me if I had ever seen the movie “Matewan.” I replied that I hadn't. In a way, my husband was a history teacher to me, so he found the movie on YouTube, and we watched it together on May 1. This movie is an example of the struggle to liberate the working class from exploitation by the capitalists in the US.

It was 1920 in the southwestern coal fields. The plot: in the American town of Matewan, all the work that exists is mining coal in the company mines. Food, clothing, electricity, housing - everything belongs to the company. But the mine owners want more: they lower pay, raise prices in stores, squeeze the last juices out of the workers. The people's patience has run out. The workers start a union to defend their rights and freedom. They stop their work. Only the mine owners do not want to give up so easily, they hire armed agents, mercenaries, ready at any moment to use weapons.

Will ordinary people have enough courage and determination when gun barrels are pointed at them and their families? Is everyone ready to stand to the end? And how will this confrontation end?

One of the best films by independent director John Sayles, immersing the viewer in the atmosphere of historical events, called “The Battle of Matewan".

Today I am sharing this film with you so that you can remember the true meaning of the holiday as well. If you want, you can watch it on YouTube. Here's the link.

Watch, think, share your thoughts in the chat. Share the movie with others. Happy Holiday!

Lyudmila Bentley
May 1, 2025.