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History Extra podcast

The Luddites: everything you wanted to know

Jun 24, 2023
Discover the motivations behind the Luddite movement and their demands for job retention and improved working conditions. Explore the rise and peak of Luddism in Britain, including notable incidents such as failed assassination attempts. Learn about the measures taken by the government to suppress the movement and the role of women in the disturbances. Delve into the political and social climate during the time, including the rise of democratic radicalism. Uncover the portrayal of the Luddites in the press and Lord Byron's sympathy towards affected communities. Explore the legacy of the Luddites and their connections to modern movements opposing automation and large-scale farming.
48:56

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Quick takeaways

  • The Luddites protested against the introduction of new machinery that threatened their skilled jobs and working conditions.
  • The Luddite movement had a strong tradition of song and symbolism, with songs written about General Ludd and the victories of the Luddites.

Deep dives

Who were the Luddites?

The Luddites were a movement of workers in England during the Napoleonic War (1811-1816) who broke industrial machinery, mainly in the stocking and textile industries, in protest against the introduction of new machinery that threatened their skilled jobs and working conditions.

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