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15Sep

Combining efforts: 200 years of trade union history

Hosted by LSE Library
LSE Library Gallery
Monday 15 Sep 2025 9am to Saturday 31 Jan 2026 - 7pm

Visit our newest exhibition, jointly curated with TUC Library

Introduction

This year marks the 200th anniversary of the passing of the 1825 Combination Act. The Act allowed for unions to form but also placed significant restrictions on their activities. The recognition of workers’ voices and campaigns remained contested. This exhibition traces some of the history of the development of trade unions through years of struggle, triumph, defeat, and resilience.

A group of men stood at a gate armbands with the word "Picket" written on.
Image courtesy TUC Library

Alongside historical campaigns, it also shines a spotlight on underrepresented voices within the movement, including the LGBTQ+ rights campaign led by Jackie Lewis and the vital contributions of Black trade unionists today.

The exhibition was jointly curated and features materials courtesy of the TUC Library, which was founded in 1922 and is housed as part of the Special Collections at London Metropolitan University.

Curated by Indy Bhullar, Chelsea Collison and Jeff Howarth.

A poster advertising the Combining Efforts exhibition 15 September to 31 January

How to find us

Organise a tour

  • The Gallery is a small enough space for a 15 minute tour — available on request.

Opening times

  • Monday to Friday, 9am to 7pm
  • Saturday and Sunday, 11am to 6pm

Any questions?

Contact us via email or see other ways to get in touch

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