The Luddite Rebellion

The Luddite Rebellion was a social movement in early 19th-century England, where skilled textile workers protested against the Industrial Revolution’s mechanization. They feared that new machines, like power looms and spinning frames, would replace their jobs, reduce wages, and undermine traditional craftsmanship. Starting around 1811, they often destroyed factory machinery as an act of resistance. The government responded with harsh laws, and the movement eventually diminished. The Luddites are often seen as early labor activists highlighting concerns about technological change disrupting employment and social stability.