John Henry is the most famous African-American laborer in the history of the United States and probably the world. He left his mark on the hearts and minds of generations by beating the best technology of his time, the steam drill, only to produce his own untimely death. The account of his victory over seemingly insurmountable odds is one of the most epic struggles ever handed down from generation to generation. The threat of encroaching automation is an ongoing struggle for human labor and the victory of John Henry serves to give us all hope for the future. It is inconceivable that this man is not honored for his contribution to humanity. Please issue a presidential proclamation to make the John Henry Historical Park in Talcott, West Virginia a national monument!
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