The correct spelling of the phrase "rolling strike" is /ˈrəʊlɪŋ straɪk/. The first syllable is pronounced as "roh-ling" as in the word "rolling", which means to move forward while constantly turning over. The second syllable is pronounced as "stryk" as in the word "strike", which means to stop working as a form of protest. A rolling strike is a tactic used by workers where different groups of employees go on strike at different times, rather than all at once, in order to minimize the disruption of work.
Rolling strike refers to a labor union tactic in which individual groups of employees alternate taking part in strikes, thus keeping the pressure on management and maintaining a continuous presence of workers engaged in industrial action. This strategy involves a rotating sequence of different groups or divisions of workers walking off the job in well-coordinated intervals, with one group returning to work as another group strikes. This ensures a consistent disruption of operations while minimizing the financial strain on individual workers and their families.
The key characteristic of a rolling strike is its sequential nature, which allows unions to sustain the pressure on employers for an extended period. By systematically rotating the striking workers, this method avoids a complete shutdown of operations, preventing a widespread negative impact on the company's overall productivity. Rolling strikes are particularly effective when planned strategically as the rotating nature can overwhelm management by causing uncertainty and hindering planning and production.
This approach is often used when labor unions seek to negotiate better working conditions, increased wages, or other benefits on behalf of their members. By implementing rolling strikes, unions can maintain leverage and maximize their impact without exposing all their members to the risks associated with long-term strikes, such as loss of income or potential replacement.
Overall, a rolling strike employs a calculated rotation of striking groups to maintain continuous pressure on management, ensuring a lasting impact while mitigating potential negative consequences for employees. This strategy aims to force employers to address the demands of the union, thereby making it a formidable tool in the arsenal of labor activists.
The term "rolling strike" does not have a specific etymology, as it is a combination of two unrelated words.
"Rolling" refers to the action of rolling or moving in a smooth, continuous motion. This word comes from the Old English word "rollian" which means "to roll or curl", and can be traced back to the Latin word "rotulus" meaning "a small wheel".
"Strike" on the other hand, comes from the Old English word "strīcan", meaning "to hit, beat, or strike". This word has roots that can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "strikōną".
Together, "rolling strike" is a term used in various contexts, such as sports or labor disputes, to describe a combination of movement or action (rolling) and an aggressive action (strike).