Key Radicals and Reformers: Robert Owen

Question 1

What did Robert Owen study and focus on?

Answer 1

He studied Track and Management in London/Manchester.

He became concerned about the exploitation of workers esp. Children.

Question 2

What did he dislike?

Answer 2

The ‘Truck System’, workers were paid in tokens not cash, shop was owned by factor workers.

Question 3

What did he open in 1783?

Answer 3

He opened New Lanark Mills, owned by Daniel Dale and Richard Arkwright.

Question 4

What did the New Lanark Mills focus on?

Answer 4

Obligated to looking after workers, and would only sell on to owners who look after workers rights.

Question 5

What did Owen do with Lanark Mills?

Answer 5

He invested money on schools and public buildings for workers.

Worker accommodation was clean and spacious, Owen was committed to workers rights.

Question 6

What did he do in 1810?

Answer 6

He reduced working days to 10 hours.

Question 7

Who was Owen said to have influenced?

Answer 7

1819 Cotton Mills and Factory Acts.

1. Forbid employment of Children under 9
2. Age 9-16 to 12 hour shifts