On this day, March 25, in 1911

The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire occurred in New York City, resulting in the death of 148 garment workers, most of who were young immigrant women from Eastern Europe. When the textile factory went up in flames the two company owners immediately fled the building leaving many of the exit doors locked. While many of the workers were alerted and able to escape, the women on the 9th floor were stuck in the fire as their only possible exit way was locked. Although the two company owners were acquitted by a jury, the fire led to legislation requiring improved factory safety standards and helped spur the growth of the International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union, which fought for better working conditions for sweatshop workers.