James P. Cannon
Early Life and Background
James P. Cannon was born on February 11, 1890, in Rosedale, Kansas, a small town that would later become part of Kansas City. His parents were Irish immigrants, and his upbringing was marked by the working-class struggles of the early 20th century. Cannon's father was a socialist, which greatly influenced his political orientation from a young age. This environment fostered his early interest in socialism and labor rights, setting the stage for his future activism.
Political Beginnings
Cannon's political journey began in earnest when he joined the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) in 1911. The IWW, known for its radical approach to labor organizing, was a natural fit for Cannon's burgeoning revolutionary ideals. During his time with the IWW, Cannon was involved in various labor strikes and campaigns, gaining firsthand experience in organizing and agitation.
Involvement with the Socialist Party
In 1914, Cannon joined the Socialist Party of America, where he became an active member. His work within the party was characterized by a commitment to the principles of Marxism and a desire to see the working class gain control over the means of production. Cannon's involvement with the Socialist Party was a crucial period in his development as a political leader, as it provided him with a broader platform to express his revolutionary ideas.
Founding of the Communist Party USA
The Russian Revolution of 1917 had a profound impact on Cannon, as it did on many leftists around the world. Inspired by the Bolshevik success, Cannon became a founding member of the Communist Party USA (CPUSA) in 1919. His role in the party was significant; he was a key figure in organizing and spreading communist ideology across the United States. Cannon's leadership within the CPUSA was marked by his dedication to the principles of Leninism and his efforts to align the party with the Communist International (Comintern).
Expulsion and the Formation of the Trotskyist Movement
Cannon's relationship with the CPUSA became strained in the late 1920s due to ideological differences. In 1928, while attending the Sixth Congress of the Comintern in Moscow, Cannon came across Leon Trotsky's critique of the Soviet regime, known as the "Left Opposition." Convinced by Trotsky's arguments, Cannon returned to the United States and began advocating for Trotskyist ideas. This led to his expulsion from the CPUSA in 1928.
Following his expulsion, Cannon, along with other like-minded individuals, founded the Communist League of America (CLA) in 1928, marking the beginning of the Trotskyist movement in the United States. The CLA was the first Trotskyist organization in the country and played a pivotal role in promoting Trotsky's ideas and opposing Stalinism.
The Socialist Workers Party
In 1938, Cannon was instrumental in the merger of the CLA with other leftist groups to form the Socialist Workers Party (SWP). The SWP became the primary vehicle for Trotskyist politics in the United States, advocating for revolutionary socialism and workers' rights. Under Cannon's leadership, the SWP focused on building a mass movement capable of challenging capitalist structures.
The Minneapolis Teamsters Strike
One of the most significant events during Cannon's leadership of the SWP was the Minneapolis Teamsters Strike of 1934. This strike was a pivotal moment in American labor history, as it demonstrated the power of organized labor and the effectiveness of militant tactics. Cannon's strategic guidance and the SWP's involvement were crucial to the success of the strike, which resulted in significant gains for the workers and increased the influence of the SWP.
World War II and the Smith Act Trials
During World War II, the SWP opposed U.S. involvement, viewing the conflict as an imperialist war. This stance led to increased scrutiny and persecution by the U.S. government. In 1941, Cannon and other SWP leaders were arrested under the Smith Act, which made it illegal to advocate the overthrow of the government. The trial, known as the "Minneapolis Sedition Trial," resulted in Cannon's conviction and imprisonment. Despite this setback, Cannon remained a prominent figure in the Trotskyist movement, continuing to write and organize from prison.
Post-War Activities and Legacy
After his release from prison in 1945, Cannon resumed his leadership role within the SWP. He continued to advocate for Trotskyist principles and worked to expand the party's influence both domestically and internationally. Cannon's writings during this period, including his book "The History of American Trotskyism," are considered seminal works in the field of revolutionary socialism.
Cannon's legacy is complex and multifaceted. He is remembered as a dedicated revolutionary who played a crucial role in the development of the American left. His contributions to the Trotskyist movement and his efforts to promote socialist ideals have left a lasting impact on the political landscape.