The Molly Maguires were established in the late 1800’s, and were composed of Irish-American coal miners. They migrated from Ireland during the Great Potato Famine, and continued their secret organization in the states. They were primarily active during the 1860’s, and the 1870’s. During this time, news came from Pennsylvania telling of heinous crimes committed against the mining officials of the area. The Molly Maguires were an active labor force at the time, but eventually they were accused of various crimes such as kidnappings and murders. Many have questioned where the name, "Molly Maguires," stems from. There have been many theories proposed as to where the name originated. One of the most common theories is that the name comes from the island of Eire. “Molly Maguire,” is also said to have been an actual person, who refused to leave her cottage when Protestant officials would try to remove her for being Catholic. The Molly Maguire’s often disguised themselves in women’s clothing, posing as females, possibly adding to the name. The organization tormented and ridiculed anyone who spoke against them. Powerful names, in the industries at the time, were responsible for testifying against the Molly Maguire’s. One man specifically, James McParlan, worked undercover. He eventually exposed the secrets of the Molly Maguire’s. McParlan described that the goal of the Molly Maguire’s was, "To take from those who had in abundance and give it to the poor." McParlan was very successful at gaining trust, and recognition from the Molly Maguire’s who legitimately thought he was on their side. 4 main murders followed in the summer of 1875, they were the catalysts for the trials of the Molly Maguire’s. Through McParland’s help, the authorities were able to come up with enough evidence to place members of the Molly Maguire’s on trial. The Molly Maguire’s Trials began in 1876, and lasted until 1877. The first member tried w