Includes bibliographical references (pages 281-295) and index.
Summary
This book looks at hundreds of autobiographies penned between 1760 and 1900 to offer a first-hand account of how the Industrial Revolution was experienced by the working class. The Industrial Revolution brought not simply misery and poverty. On the contrary, Griffin shows how it raised incomes, improved literacy, and offered exciting opportunities for political action. For many, this was a period of new, and much valued, sexual and cultural freedom. This personal account focuses on the social impact of the Industrial Revolution, rather than its economic and political histories.
Contents
Introduction: 'A simple naritive' -- Men at work -- Suffer little children -- Women, work and the cares of home -- A brand new wife and an empty pocket -- Naughty tricks on the bed -- Education -- Gospel Times -- Sons of freedom -- Conclusion.
