Thirty-nine national and state labor leaders are jailed. Employers use the bombing to justify a wave of arrests and intimidation against union supporters in key organizing drives in Los Angeles' metal trades, construction, printing and other industries. The Merchants and Manufacturers controls the press, politicians and police. California rides the wave of populist reform, taking steps intended to expand democracy with the creation of Initiative, Referendum and Recall. Governor Hiram Johnson signs legislation promoted by the State Labor Federation since its inception.
Women secure the right to vote.
The Legislature creates workers' compensation for injured workers and the eight-hour day for women. 1913 Wheatland Hopyard Riot. The Industrial Workers of the World lead protests at the Durst Ranch in Yuba County to improve working conditions for pickers. Workers fight for sanitation, clean drinking water and proper, timely payment. Two workers, the district attorney, and a deputy sheriff are killed.