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Examines the Jewish workers in the Montreal clothing industry, where was considerable strike activity, from 1910-80. Presents data on the majority Jewish representation in the industry, many of whom had just arrived from Eastern Europe bringing their knowledge of the tailoring craft with them. Describes the growth of ready-to-wear clothing and the decline of home sweatshops ("the sweating system"), which gave impetus to establishing clothing factories that, in turn, sparked unions demanding recognition and better wages and working conditions. Concludes that the Jewish workers were exceptionally militant during the period.