The automotive industry was hit hard by the Great Depression of the 1930s and many jobs were cut. The Detroit Unemployed Council and the Auto, Aircraft and Vehicle Workers of America called for a protest march to demand change. On this day in 1932, between 3,000-5,000 people set out from Detroit to Dearborn. The plan was to end at the Ford River Rouge Complex, the company’s largest factory. The group marched peacefully, until they arrived in Dearborn. The Dearborn police attempted to stop the march by firing tear gas into the crowd and began hitting marchers with clubs. The conflict escalated until police officers and Ford guards fired gunshots. Four people were killed on site and more than 60 injured, one of whom succumbed to his injuries months later.