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Articles on Coal miners

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Coal miner Scottie Stinson, left, talks with foreman Scott Tiller outside a mine in Welch, W.Va., on May 12, 2016, as he prepares to enter a mine 40 inches high. David Goldman/AP Photo

The struggle for coal miners’ health care and pension benefits continues

As coal companies look for ways to cut costs, many are reneging on their promises for health care for retired miners. Unless Congress intervenes, these miners could face ill health and poverty.
Coal miner Scott Tiller works next to a drill in an underground coal mine roughly 40 inches high in Welch, West Virginia. AP Photo/David Goldman

Black lung disease on the rise: 5 questions answered

A recent study found the largest cluster of advanced black lung disease ever recorded among coal miners in central Appalachia. Two doctors who treat black lung patients explain how miners contract it.
A painting by Sakubei Yamamoto. Yamamoto Family/Collection Yamamoto Sakubee

The “Pitmen painters” of England and Japan

Throughout the centuries, a number of coal miners have documented their lives with paintings. Some of their works are now in museums and bring the stories of the “pitmen” back to life.

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