The Luddites: The Army That Became a Word

The Luddites were a group of English textile workers who destroyed machinery in protest of the Industrial Revolution. They were named after Ned Ludd, a mythical figure who was said to have led the first attack on a textile mill. The Luddites were active in the early 19th century, and their actions helped to shape the course of the Industrial Revolution.

The Origins of the Luddites

The Industrial Revolution began in England in the late 18th century. It was a period of rapid technological change that led to the development of new machines and the rise of factories. These changes had a profound impact on the lives of textile workers. Many workers were forced to leave their homes and move to cities to find work in factories. They often had to work long hours in dangerous conditions for low pay.

The Luddites: The Army That Became A Word

by John Kaufman

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	304 KB
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Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	17 pages
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The Luddites were a response to the negative effects of the Industrial Revolution. They believed that machines were taking away their jobs and destroying their way of life. They began to organize and attack textile mills, destroying machinery and setting fire to buildings.

The Luddite Movement

The Luddite movement spread rapidly throughout England. By 1812, there were Luddite riots in over 50 towns and cities. The government responded by sending in troops to suppress the riots. Many Luddites were arrested and imprisoned, and some were even executed.

Despite the government's efforts, the Luddite movement continued to grow. The Luddites became a symbol of resistance to the Industrial Revolution. They inspired other workers to stand up for their rights and to demand better working conditions.

The Legacy of the Luddites

The Luddite movement was ultimately defeated, but it had a lasting impact on the Industrial Revolution. The government was forced to pass laws to protect workers from abuse. Factory owners were forced to improve working conditions and to provide workers with more rights.

The Luddites also left a lasting legacy in the English language. The word "luddite" is still used today to describe someone who is opposed to technological change.

The Luddites were a group of textile workers who protested the negative effects of the Industrial Revolution. They destroyed machinery and engaged in other forms of violence in an effort to protect their jobs and their way of life. The Luddites were ultimately defeated, but their movement had a lasting impact on the Industrial Revolution and on the English language.

The Luddites: The Army That Became A Word

by John Kaufman

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	304 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	17 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE