Stuff You Should Know Child Labor: Not Funny
Aug 10, 2021
The hosts dive deep into the pervasive issue of child labor, shedding light on its dark history and present realities worldwide. They share personal anecdotes contrasting their first jobs with the harsh conditions faced by child laborers. The conversation covers shocking statistics from the early 1900s and the impactful reforms of the Progressive Era. Listeners learn about the importance of education and advocacy in combating child labor, as well as pragmatic solutions that emphasize ethical practices and enforcement in modern industries.
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First Jobs
- Chuck Bryant's first job was at age 13, making $3.35/hour at J.J.'s Barbecue.
- Josh Clark's first job was even earlier, as a paperboy around age 9 or 10.
Defining Child Labor
- Early jobs held by the hosts don't qualify as child labor.
- Real child labor involves dangerous conditions, minimal pay, and lost childhood.
Early American Child Labor
- Early American settlers believed idle hands were the devil's workshop, leading to early child labor.
- Children as young as 13 were expected to work full-time or become unpaid apprentices.