The Orgreave coke works picket in 1984 had roots in the battle of Saltley Gate, marked by a mass mobilization of miners led by Arthur Scargill. Starting with 400 miners, the numbers grew to include 15,000 engineering workers from nearby factories. The successful Saltley picket forced Edward Heath's government to impose a three-day work week and lose the 1974 election. In June 1984, Scargill called upon 2,000 miners for a picket at Orgreave, where spirits were high and a significant gathering ensued, signaling solidarity among workers.
The mass picket of the Orgreave coke works in 1984 originated from the battle of Saltley Gate, involving 400 miners led by Arthur Scargill, later joining 15,000 others.
The picket at Saltley was successful, contributing to the downfall of Edward Heath's government, which had to introduce a three-day week after losing the election in 1974.
Arthur Scargill, president of the NUM, rallied 2,000 miners from South Yorkshire to the Orgreave plant, where coal was processed into coke for British Steel.
On June 18, 1984, about 400 miners gathered near the Orgreave plant; the atmosphere was cheerful and spirits were high as they prepared for the picket.
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