History of Child Labor in the United States

Overview

• Child labor was prevalent post-Civil War as industry grew.
• Children worked in industrial, retail, street, farm, and home settings.
• Reform movements arose to combat child labor.

Historical Context

• A Native American chieftain noted the surprising sight of children working in New York City in the early 20th century.
• Child labor was common from the Industrial Revolution through the 1930s.
• Children have historically been part of the labor force, seen as beneficial laborers from a young age.

Early Child Labor

• In the 18th century, children as young as 5 were expected to help with farm work.
• Economic necessity often drove families to engage their children in labor.

Child Labor Evolution

• Industrial advancements allowed children more job opportunities.
• Colonial laws aimed to prevent child idleness by encouraging work.

Economic Rationale

• Child labor was seen as beneficial to the economy and a way to prevent idleness.
• Child labor contributed significantly to household income.
• Differences in child labor expectations existed based on economic class.

Child Labor in Various Industries

Street Trades

• Children were commonly employed as newspaper sellers (newsies), shoe shiners, and messengers.
• Newsies were highly visible, often using various tricks to sell papers.

Mines

• Children worked as trappers, breaker boys, and helpers in mines, often in harsh conditions.

Cotton Mills

• Cotton mills heavily relied on child labor, particularly in the South.
• Mills were essential to the local economy, and child labor was justified as supporting families.

Factories

• Children worked in light manufacturing, such as glass bottle production, due to their small hands.

Home Workshops

• Some children worked from home, producing items like flowers and clothing.
• Home-based work was a cheaper alternative for manufacturers.

Farms

• Farming labor was home-based, with children contributing significantly to agricultural work.

Legal and Social Aspects

• Children were legally considered the property of their parents, who benefited from their labor.
• Wages earned by children were typically handed over to their parents.
• Economic contributions of children were crucial for many working-class families.

Shift in Perspective

• A growing awareness of the exploitative nature of child labor led to reforms.
• Reformers faced challenges from employers, parents, and the legal system.

Conclusion

• Over time, views on the role of working-class children evolved, leading to a decline in child labor.
• Legal and social reform efforts eventually succeeded in reducing child labor.