idea of progress 5

Workgroup Intro

Ned Ludd comes from Sherwood forest, like Robin Hood.
The riots (=émeutes) started around Nottinghamshire [Notingemshe]. In the 19th century, there were economic difficulties because of the Napoleonic Wars. The Luddite movement lasted for 5 years : they not only (non seulement) broke into factories (to break into = entrer par effraction) and attacked the machines, but also (mais aussi) employers and soldiers.

The British government tried to find a compromise, but it didn't work out, so they punished Luddites:
  • 17 were executed
  • thousands of troops were deployed

Luddites were protected by local communities because they had the public opinion with them.
Luddites were very effective, because they kept fighting, and they could regroup many people.

 

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Idea of Progress 6

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