During the Industrial Era, particularly in the late 18th to the early 20th centuries, children's working conditions were often harsh and exploitative. Here are some key aspects of their working conditions:
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Long Hours: Children frequently worked extremely long hours, often ranging from 10 to 16 hours a day, six days a week. The workweek could extend up to 70-80 hours.
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Low Wages: Children were paid significantly less than adults, often earning only a fraction of an adult's wage. Despite their low pay, families often relied on these additional incomes for survival.
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Dangerous Environments: Many child workers were employed in factories, mines, and mills where they faced dangerous conditions. For instance, in textile mills, children could easily get caught in machinery, while those in coal mines were exposed to hazardous conditions, including cave-ins and toxic air.
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Health Risks: Child laborers were often subjected to poor ventilation, excessive noise, and exposure to harmful substances. This resulted in a range of health problems, including respiratory issues, injuries, and, in some cases, long-term disabilities.
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Limited Education: Many child workers had little to no access to education, as they were expected to work instead of attending school. This lack of education further perpetuated the cycle of poverty.
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Physical and Mental Strain: The demanding nature of the work, along with the long hours, took a toll on children's physical and mental well-being. They often faced exhaustion and were subjected to harsh discipline from employers.
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Legal Limitations and Reforms: Initially, there were very few laws to protect child laborers, but as the negative impacts became widely recognized, reform movements began to advocate for better conditions. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, various laws were enacted in some countries to regulate child labor, limit working hours, and require schooling.
Overall, child labor during the Industrial Era was characterized by exploitation and hardship, leading to significant social and labor reforms in later years. The legacy of this era has influenced labor laws and child welfare policies in many countries today.