Despite brutal conditions and meager wages, 18th-19th century industrial workers forged resilience, solidarity, and a growing demand for justice.
The predominant sentiments and attitudes of industrial workers between 1750 and 1900 were a complex tapestry woven from hardship, resilience, and a growing sense of collective identity.
Hardship: Brutal working conditions, meager wages, and precarious job security defined their daily lives. Sources like factory diaries and worker testimonies paint grim pictures of long hours, unsafe environments, and exploitation.
Resilience: Despite the harsh realities, workers developed coping mechanisms. Solidarity and camaraderie emerged in shared struggles, fostering a sense of community and mutual support. Unions and labor movements, though nascent, began to challenge the power of employers.
Evolving perspectives: As time progressed, workers' attitudes shifted. Initially, acceptance and resignation dominated, gradually giving way to frustration and resentment towards unfair treatment. Historical sources like protest songs and strike pamphlets reveal growing demands for better wages, shorter hours, and improved conditions.
This period saw a transformation from isolated individuals to a collective force:
18th century: Acceptance and adaptation to the new industrial landscape.
Early 19th century: Rising discontent and occasional protests, but limited collective action.
Late 19th century: Increased militancy, unionization efforts, and major strikes for worker rights.
By 1900, the industrial worker was no longer a passive figure, but a conscious agent in shaping their own destiny. Their experiences and challenges laid the groundwork for significant social and economic reforms that would continue into the 20th century.
Complete question:
What were the predominant sentiments and attitudes of industrial workers between 1750 and 1900 based on historical sources? Provide insights into their experiences, challenges, and perspectives during this transformative period.