Where do you stand? Visit PHM’s headline exhibition for 2026 and explore how strike action has shaped the history and future of British democracy. Part of the national commemorations marking 100 years since the 1926 General Strike where the exhibition begins, On The Line takes visitors on a journey through a century of struggles and stories of strength.
An unprecedented act of unity, the 1926 General Strike saw workers across the country withdraw their labour in support of over a million miners who had been locked out of work for refusing to accept lower pay. On The Line examines the impact of strike action on individuals, communities, and wider society, highlighting key moments of solidarity, when people have united as a last resort in the face of injustice, poor working conditions, and unfair treatment.
Discover powerful objects from PHM’s nationally significant collection, including banners and badges, paintings and posters, t-shirts and a truncheon, and pivotal moments from the past and present including the Grunwick Strike (1976-1978), the Miners’ Strike (1984-1985) and Amazon’s Coventry warehouse strikes (2023-2024).
Viewed together, these historic and contemporary objects and events reveal how one act of resistance can inspire another, how each step contributes towards achieving change for the many.
Visit On The Line and witness the strength of collective power, uncover the battles fought, the solidarity shared, and the lifelines which have united workers throughout history to today.
Part of PHM’s programme of activity exploring the history of strikes and solidarity.
Suitable for all ages (under 12s must have an accompanying adult).
Are you more independent or community focused? Experimental or measured? Prefer work or play?
Take our quick quiz to find out which radical you are!
