“WE ARE ALL LEADERS”: ANARCHISM AND THE NARRATIVE OF THE INDUSTRIAL WORKERS OF THE WORLD

Abstract

This article explores the narrative relationship between the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) as an organization and anarchism. Specifically, this article asks: How has the theme of anarchism been negotiated within the IWW and how does it appear in the narrative? In addition, how has anarchism functioned within the organizational narrative? For this research, a mixed method approach of content analysis, semi‐structured interviews, and participant observation was used. This article describes four ways in which anarchism is used in the IWW narrative. First, both the IWW and anarchism have benefited from changing structural opportunities. Second, the IWW is seen as a practical means for carrying out anarchist ideals. Third, anarchism has been a mediator for the IWW. Finally, there is tension between the IWW and anarchism.