The Luddites

The Luddites were skilled weavers, mechanics, and other artisans who followed the mythical figure of Ned Ludd.  The were angry because factories began to hire inexperienced people to complete the task that typically only a skilled artisan would be able to do.  The Luddites responded to this injustice by attacking machines and factories.  They would also set fire to the factories.  Contrary to popular belief, the Luddites were not anti-technology.  While they were destroying factories and machines, the Luddites would dress up as women.  This helped people agree with the Luddites and sympathize with them.  In order to show the perspective of a Luddite, the following paragraph is a mock primary source letter.

Dear cousin,

As you know, I have been having a difficult time making money recently.  I was an artisan, but now no one needs my skills.  The cheap factories hires anyone willing to work.  Jobs that once required skill and experience are being done by anyone and everyone.  Now, i cannot find money because no one wants to pay more money for an artisan.  A group called the Luddites also feels this way.  They break into factories and destroy the machines and the factory.  The destruction makes me feel uneasy, but i can’t help but want to join the Luddites.  Change must happen, and if some vandalism is what it takes to bring the change, then it may be worth it.  The more I think about it, the more I see myself becoming an artisan.  

Luddites breaking a machine in a factory.