Luddites meaning

The Luddites were a group of early 19th-century English textile workers who protested against the advances in machinery that were replacing their jobs.


Luddites definitions

Word backwards setidduL
Part of speech The word "Luddites" is a noun.
Syllabic division Lud-dites
Plural The plural of the word Luddite is Luddites.
Total letters 8
Vogais (3) u,i,e
Consonants (4) l,d,t,s

Luddites were a group of English textile workers and self-employed weavers in the early 19th century who protested against the changes brought about by the Industrial Revolution, which they felt threatened their livelihoods. The term "Luddite" has since come to refer to anyone opposed to new technology or industrialization.

The Luddite movement began in 1811 when a group of workers in Nottinghamshire destroyed weaving machinery as a form of protest. The movement spread to other industrial towns in England, leading to a number of protests and acts of sabotage against factories and machinery.

Reasons for Opposition

The Luddites were motivated by a fear of being replaced by machines that could perform their jobs more efficiently and at a lower cost. They were also concerned about the working conditions in factories and the impact of industrialization on their communities.

Response from Authorities

The British government responded to the Luddite protests with harsh measures, passing laws that made machine-breaking a capital offense. Hundreds of Luddites were arrested and some were even executed for their actions.

Legacy of the Luddites

While the Luddite movement ultimately failed to stop the march of progress, it did bring attention to the social and economic impact of industrialization. Today, the term "Luddite" is often used to describe those who resist or fear new technologies, even as society continues to be transformed by innovation.


Luddites Examples

  1. Many people believe that the Luddites were justified in their resistance to new technology during the Industrial Revolution.
  2. The Luddites were known for destroying machinery in protest of the changes it brought to their way of life.
  3. Some view the Luddites as heroes who fought against the oppressive forces of progress.
  4. Others see the Luddites as short-sighted and resistant to necessary advancements.
  5. The term "Luddite" is often used to describe someone who is opposed to technological innovation.
  6. Despite their reputation, the Luddites were actually fighting for fair working conditions and wages.
  7. Many modern workers who fear automation are labeled as Luddites by their more tech-savvy counterparts.
  8. The Luddites' protests ultimately failed to stop the march of progress in the Industrial Revolution.
  9. Some argue that the legacy of the Luddites can still be seen in today's debates over job displacement due to automation.
  10. Although the Luddites are often portrayed negatively, their resistance to change is understandable given the circumstances of their time.


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  • Updated 13/05/2024 - 08:33:59