The Kansas Balkans refers to the coal mining regions of Southeast Kansas, particularly Crawford and Cherokee Counties. It is an area known for its rich cultural heritage and for its turbulent strike-ridden history. This 'fight for your rights,' 'belligerent independence' created a volatile political history of rebellion and reform. The Kansas Balkans became one of the most progressive, influential regions of the state. While Southeast Kansas was often out of step with the rest of the state, its history suggests it was often in advance of it. Reforms such as the 8-hour work day, equal rights for women and minorities, and child labor laws, now an accepted standard of the American way of life, were all fought for in the coal fields of Southeast Kansas.

Dedicated to the spirit of the 'Little Balkans'