Bread and Roses (1993 film)

Bread and Roses is a 1993 British historical drama television film directed by Ken Loach and written by Trevor Griffiths. It tells the story of the 1912 Lawrence Textile Strike, also known as the "Bread and Roses" strike, in Lawrence, Massachusetts.

The film focuses on the experiences of a group of immigrant women workers in the textile mills who are subjected to appalling working conditions and low wages. The title derives from a slogan used during the strike, encapsulating the idea that workers deserved not only bread (a living wage) but also roses (dignity, beauty, and a better quality of life).

The film depicts the growing unionization movement among the workers, led by figures such as Joseph Ettor and Arturo Giovannitti. It portrays the challenges they faced, including resistance from mill owners, police brutality, and divisions within the workforce.

"Bread and Roses" is noted for its realistic portrayal of working-class life and its exploration of themes such as social justice, immigration, and the struggle for workers' rights. It makes use of non-professional actors and filming on location to enhance the authenticity of the narrative. While the film is a fictionalized account, it is based on historical events and aims to reflect the realities faced by textile workers in early 20th century America.