Life Before Child Labor Laws: A History for Kids

In the not-so-distant past, children as young as 5 or 6 were forced to work in factories, mines, and fields. They worked long hours in dangerous conditions for little pay. This book tells the story of those children and the fight to end child labor.

Kids Had Jobs : Life before Child Labor Laws - History Book for Kids | Children's History

by Baby Professor

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4548 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	33 pages

FREE

The Industrial Revolution

The Industrial Revolution was a time of great change. New machines were invented that made it possible to produce goods more quickly and cheaply. This led to the growth of factories, which needed workers to operate the machines. Many of these workers were children.

Children were often preferred by factory owners because they were smaller and could be paid less than adults. They were also more likely to be obedient and less likely to complain about the working conditions.

Working Conditions

The working conditions in factories were often dangerous and unhealthy. Children worked long hours in poorly lit and ventilated buildings. They were often exposed to dangerous chemicals and machinery. Many children were injured or killed on the job.

In addition to the physical dangers, children who worked in factories also suffered from emotional and psychological problems. They were often separated from their families and friends. They had little time for play or education. Many children became withdrawn and depressed.

The Fight to End Child Labor

The fight to end child labor began in the early 19th century. Reformers began to speak out against the use of child labor. They argued that it was wrong to exploit children and that it was harmful to their health and development.

In 1833, the first child labor law was passed in England. This law prohibited children under the age of 9 from working in factories. Other countries soon followed suit. In the United States, the first child labor law was passed in 1842. This law prohibited children under the age of 12 from working in factories.

The fight to end child labor was a long and difficult one. Factory owners fought against the laws, arguing that they would hurt their businesses. However, reformers persevered. In 1938, the Fair Labor Standards Act was passed in the United States. This law prohibited children under the age of 16 from working in most jobs.

The Legacy of Child Labor

The legacy of child labor is still felt today. Many of the problems that children face today, such as poverty, illiteracy, and crime, can be traced back to the exploitation of children in the past.

However, the fight to end child labor has also been a success story. Today, child labor is illegal in most countries. Children are now able to go to school and play. They are not forced to work in dangerous and unhealthy conditions. The fight to end child labor is a reminder that even the most difficult problems can be overcome with determination and perseverance.

Life Before Child Labor Laws is a powerful and moving book that tells the story of the children who were forced to work in factories, mines, and fields. It is a book that will stay with you long after you have finished reading it.

If you are interested in learning more about child labor, here are some resources:

• The International Labour Organization (ILO): https://www.ilo.org/global/topics/child-labour/lang--en/index.htm
• The National Child Labor Committee (NCLC): https://www.nclc.org/
• Human Rights Watch: https://www.hrw.org/topic/childrens-rights/child-labor

Kids Had Jobs : Life before Child Labor Laws - History Book for Kids | Children's History

by Baby Professor

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4548 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	33 pages

FREE