Question

Why did Lowell "mill girls" work despite the long hours, dangerous conditions, and health hazards?

They enjoyed a sense of independence and empowerment.
They earned substantial wages that helped support their families.
They could use the technical skills they learned in school.
They had no choice because their fathers sold working rights to the mills.

Answer 1

They earned substantial wages that helped support their families.

Step-by-step explanation:

Young workers who worked in the industrial businesses in Lowell, Massachusetts were known as Lowell mill girls.

Most of the workers were daughters of New England farmers who owned farms and were between 15 to 35 years old. At height of the Industrial Revolution there were more than 8000 Lowell mill workers in USA. They made up three-quarters of the mill workforce. They were compelled to work faster than their capacity.

The women came to work in the mills to earn supplementary income and provide financial help to their families.

Answer 2

They earned substantial amount of wages that helped support their families.

Explanation: This is one of the strongest motivation for workers despite an unfavorable working conditions, the thought of financial rewards in meeting basic needs keep workers working no matter the conditions.