Answer:
Step-by-step explanation:
Children were allowed to work at dangerous jobs, such as mining, due to a combination of societal attitudes, economic factors, and limited regulations. Here are some reasons why children were permitted to work in these hazardous occupations:
1. Economic Necessity: In many cases, families relied on the income of every family member, including children, to survive. Poverty and economic hardships forced children to work in dangerous jobs like mining to contribute to their family's income.
2. Cheap Labor: Employers found child labor to be a cost-effective solution. Children were paid significantly lower wages compared to adult workers, making them attractive to employers seeking to reduce labor costs.
3. Lack of Regulation: During certain periods in history, there were limited or no regulations in place to protect the rights and well-being of workers, including children. Child labor laws were either absent or insufficient, allowing employers to exploit child labor without facing significant consequences.
4. Societal Attitudes: In the past, societal attitudes towards child labor were different compared to today. Children were often seen as a source of cheap labor and were expected to contribute to the family income. There was less awareness about the physical and psychological dangers associated with working in hazardous jobs.
5. Limited Education Opportunities: Access to education was limited, particularly for children from lower-income families. The lack of educational opportunities meant that children had fewer alternatives to working in dangerous occupations.
It is important to note that over time, awareness of the detrimental effects of child labor has grown, leading to the establishment of stricter labor laws and regulations aimed at protecting the rights and well-being of children. Today, child labor is widely condemned, and efforts have been made globally to eliminate it.