Why the standard eight-hour workday was not always the norm for factory laborers
In short: During the Industrial Revolution, factory shifts often stretched between 10 and 18 hours. This video explores the shift away from these grueling conditions and the historical context behind the transition to our modern workday.
In the 19th century, factory owners sought to maximize output by running facilities from sunrise to sunset. Workers, facing extremely low wages and a lack of representation or education, were forced to endure shifts lasting up to 18 hours, six days a week. Families often sent children into these factories to survive, leaving them without schooling.
The transition away from these conditions began during the 19th century as the necessity for long hours and the exploitation of labor were challenged. This shift marked a departure from the era when workers had few options beyond enduring hazardous environments for survival.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Why a Typical Work Day is 8 Hours Long
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