Luddite

The Luddites were a social movement of English workers in the early 1800s who protested – often by destroying textile machines – against the changes produced by the Industrial Revolution that they felt threatened their jobs. The movement – which began in 1811 – was named after a probably mythical leader, Ned Ludd. For a short time the movement was so strong that it clashed in battles with the British Army. Harsh repressive measures by the government included a mass trial at York in 1813 that resulted in many death penalties and transportations.

Related Topics:
Social movement - English - 1800s - Textile - Machine - Industrial Revolution - 1811 - Ned Ludd - Battle - British Army - York - 1813 - Death penalties - Transportation

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Since then, the term Luddite has been used to describe anyone opposed to technological progress and technological change. For the modern movement of opposition to technology, see neo-luddism

Related Topics:
Technological progress - Technological change - Neo-luddism

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