Children in factories Flashcards
Why did people want laws to protect children in factories?
Factories were said to be unnatural places, where children were harshly punished. They would regularly work 16 hours and when they became tired, accidents became common.
What was wrong with factory conditions?
They were hot and stuffy, exploiting children who were poorly paid and poorly educated.
What was the treatment of young girls like?
They were made to stand all day before their bodies’ had developed - this damaged their pelvis and made childbirth dangerously difficult.
Why did attitudes to child labour change?
Scandalous treatment had become known, surgeons in Manchester reported on the terrible health of pauper apprentices.
Who became the main voice for the concerns regarding the health of children?
Richard Oastler and Anthony Ashley Cooper.
What did Oastler support?
He supported the 10 hour movement, which was the idea that all working people should not work more than a ten hour day. He also believed that the ruling classes had a duty to protect the weak and poor.
Who was John Fielden?
A factory owner who believed decent wages and reasonable hours would make factory workers healthier and happier, therefore more productive.
What was the significance of Evangelical Christians?
Their influence was concerned with the moral and spiritual welfare, as they were a growing movement after the 1820s.
What was there a rising call for?
Children to be educated, which meant changing the way in which they worked.
