Mining refers to a range of methods used to extract natural resources from underground. Mining has a complex relationship to anarchism. Mineworkers' have traditionally been some of the most exploited members of the working class and have seen some of the most violent struggles against the state and capitalism. Whilst environmentalists have frequently fought against the construction and operation of mines, given the extensive pollution generated by mining.
Mining in Libertarian Socialism
Augustin Souchy wrote a description of coal mines in Oliete during the Spanish Revolution:
Coal was found on the outskirts of the town.They started to mine it immediately. They ship olive oil to Barcelona. With the proceeds of the sale they buy machinery, electrical supplies, motors and a water pump. Eighteen young workers work in the mine. They began to draw out coal January 1st. They had no engineer or technician to assist them. One of the two emigrants had worked in the coal mines of northern France during his long years of exile. He put his experience to the service of the cause cheerfully. Rails and electricity were installed in the mine and production started within a few weeks. They produce a freight car load per day. Production could be tripled if there were enough hands and enough machinery.[1]