Work and Unemployment, 1834-1911

This collection explores the relationship between work and unemployment in Victorian and Edwardian Britain, examining the impact of mechanization, urbanization, and labor displacement on society. It is accompanied by extensive editorial commentary and will be of great interest to students of British History.

Format: Hardback
Length: 1741 pages
Publication date: 03 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive four-volume set delves into the intricate interplay between work and unemployment, revealing the profound connections that existed for Victorians and Edwardians. It explores the ever-shifting dynamics that shaped the meanings associated with these two states, intricately woven together by the relentless pursuit of employment and the willingness to labor. The advent of mechanization, the decline of traditional trades, the emergence of single-industry cities and towns, the migration of agricultural laborers from rural areas to urban centers, including London, the proliferation of sweatshops, and the displacement of adult men's labor by women and adolescent boys all sparked urgent discussions about the complex relationships between work and unemployment.

To delve into these topics, the collection relies on a wealth of primary sources, providing a rich and detailed perspective on the era. Accompanied by extensive editorial commentary, this collection is an invaluable resource for students of British history, offering a deep understanding of the social, economic, and cultural forces that shaped this period.

The first volume explores the historical background, examining the social and economic conditions that shaped the attitudes towards work and unemployment during the Victorian and Edwardian eras. It explores the impact of industrialization, urbanization, and the growth of capitalism on the labor market, as well as the changing attitudes towards manual labor and the role of women in the workforce.

The second volume delves into the experiences of workers themselves, examining the challenges and hardships they faced in their search for employment and the impact of unemployment on their lives. It includes accounts from factory workers, agricultural laborers, and other marginalized groups, shedding light on their struggles, victories, and resilience in the face of adversity.

The third volume explores the government's response to unemployment, examining the policies and programs implemented to address the issue. It discusses the role of the state in regulating labor markets, providing social welfare, and promoting job creation. It also examines the impact of these policies on workers and their families.

The fourth volume examines the cultural and social implications of work and unemployment, exploring the ways in which these states shaped individuals' identities, relationships, and sense of purpose. It explores the role of work in shaping gender roles, class distinctions, and social hierarchies, as well as the impact of unemployment on social cohesion and community identity.

In conclusion, this four-volume collection offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the complex relationships between work and unemployment in Victorian and Edwardian Britain. It provides a rich source of primary materials, accompanied by extensive editorial commentary, making it an invaluable resource for students of British history. By examining the historical, social, economic, and cultural factors that shaped these two states, this collection sheds light on the enduring legacies of work and unemployment in modern society.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367335106