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In the Late 1800's and early 1900's there was an influx of Italian Americans into the Western United States, specifically California. They became involved in many industries, primarily: fishing, wine, and canning. They were also present in other industries, such as mining and lumber, although not as prevalent as the ones mentioned prior. The fishing, canning, and wine industries were vital to regional economies in the U.S., with Italian Americans playing a central role. Their expertise in fishing and winemaking helped establish thriving industries, particularly in California, while the canning sector expanded due to their labor, ensuring the broader distribution of essential goods like seafood and wine. These industries not only drove economic growth but also shaped the cultural and social landscapes of their communities.

Because of the capitalist nature of the United States at the time, corporations tended to prioritize profit over worker safety and rights. As a result, labor activism and a culture of unionization and strikes developed, and industries worked by Italian Americans/Italian immigrants was no exception. A key strike led and arranged by Italian immigrants, the McCloud strike, is a prime example of unionization and labor activism led by Italians.