Child Labor and the Origins of the Welfare State: Princeton Studies in Global Society

The issue of child labor has been a contentious one throughout history. In the early days of industrialization, children were often seen as a source of cheap labor, and they were frequently employed in dangerous and exploitative conditions. However, as the 19th century progressed, a growing movement of social reformers began to campaign against child labor. These reformers argued that children should be protected from the harsh realities of factory work and that they should instead be given the opportunity to attend school and develop their minds and bodies.

In this groundbreaking study, historian Philip Scranton examines the origins of the welfare state in the United States and Europe. Scranton argues that the movement to abolish child labor was a key factor in the development of the welfare state. By providing a compelling case for the protection of children, social reformers helped to create a new understanding of the role of government in society. The welfare state, Scranton argues, was not simply a product of economic necessity but also a moral imperative that grew out of the struggle against child labor.

In the early 19th century, child labor was widespread in both the United States and Europe. Children as young as six or seven years old were often employed in factories, mines, and other dangerous occupations. They worked long hours for low wages and were frequently subjected to abuse and neglect.

Agents of Reform: Child Labor and the Origins of the Welfare State (Princeton Studies in Global and Comparative Sociology)

by Elisabeth Anderson

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	27093 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	372 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

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The conditions in which children worked were often appalling. They were often forced to work in cramped and unsanitary conditions, and they were frequently exposed to hazardous chemicals and machinery. Many children were injured or killed on the job.

In addition to the physical dangers, child labor also had a negative impact on children's development. Children who worked long hours were often too tired to attend school, and they often lacked the opportunity to develop their social and emotional skills.

The movement to abolish child labor began in the early 19th century. Social reformers, such as Robert Owen and Friedrich Engels, began to speak out about the evils of child labor. They argued that children should be protected from the harsh realities of factory work and that they should instead be given the opportunity to attend school and develop their minds and bodies.

The movement to abolish child labor gained momentum in the late 19th century. In the United States, the National Child Labor Committee was founded in 1904. The NCLC lobbied for the passage of child labor laws and worked to raise awareness of the issue. In Europe, similar organizations were founded in many countries.

The movement to abolish child labor was successful in achieving a number of important reforms. In the United States, the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 finally banned the employment of children under the age of 14 in most occupations. In Europe, similar laws were passed in many countries.

The movement to abolish child labor had a profound impact on the development of the welfare state. By providing a compelling case for the protection of children, social reformers helped to create a new understanding of the role of government in society. The welfare state, Scranton argues, was not simply a product of economic necessity but also a moral imperative that grew out of the struggle against child labor.

The welfare state provides a range of social programs that are designed to protect children and other vulnerable groups. These programs include child care, health care, and education. The welfare state has played a vital role in reducing poverty and improving the lives of children around the world.

The movement to abolish child labor was a long and difficult struggle, but it was ultimately successful. The welfare state, which grew out of this struggle, has played a vital role in protecting children and other vulnerable groups. The welfare state is a testament to the power of social movements to create a more just and equitable society.

• The National Child Labor Committee
• The International Labour Organization
• The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child

• A young boy working in a factory
• A group of children protesting child labor
• A group of children attending school

Agents of Reform: Child Labor and the Origins of the Welfare State (Princeton Studies in Global and Comparative Sociology)

by Elisabeth Anderson

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	27093 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	372 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE