Tompkins Square Park Riot 1874

The Tompkins Square Riot was driven by the economic hardship caused by the Panic of 1873. With rising unemployment, New York City’s working class organized to demand public works programs instead of charity. After failed attempts to meet city officials, the Committee of Safety organized a protest in Tompkins Square on January 13, 1874, though the police revoked their permit at the last minute. The misunderstanding led to a violent police crackdown on thousands of demonstrators, highlighting tensions over economic disparity and workers’ rights during the era.