A strike by the United Mine Workers of America, called in 1902 in a bid for higher wages, shorter hours, and union recognition. The employers refused to arbitrate and President Theodore Roosevelt appointed a commission to mediate, which led the union to call off the strike. In 1903 the commission gave the miners a 10% wage increase but refused to recognize the union. The intransigent behaviour of the employers created public support for the federal government’s intervention and the strike signalled an important extension of federal economic responsibilities.