RAFT Luddites: Taking Sides

When hearing the word "Luddite" many things might come to your mind, including “people who are like kinda against like technology.” Well, the word’s true meaning has definitely been twisted throughout the centuries, and there is much more to who the original Luddites actually were. Luddites were skilled weavers, mechanics, and other artisans, they were followers of the mythical figure “Ned Ludd”. During the early industrialization they attacked machines and factories to protest against economic hardship. The Luddites wanted more work and better wages, this was the reason behind their outbreaks. The piece that follows is a mock primary source letter, where I am a young girl factory worker, writing to my cousin in America.

         Two Luddites destroying a textile mill in the year 1812.

Dear Marie,

     You should be proud to know that I am the newest factory worker at a mill in Nottingham! But, the reason that I finally got this work is not too pleasant. You see, a handful of workers who call themselves “Luddites”, have been destroying machines. They come to the mill to protest, screaming “We want better wages!”. Of course, the mill owner fired these people and that’s how I ended up with this work. The other Saturday while I was working with my spinning frame, a crazy man started running up the aisles with an axe, it was nearly the most frightful experience of my life. I truly do not understand why these people are making such a fuss over industrialization, I believe it’s been very good, especially for me. Industrialization is providing so many jobs for people who need them, just like me. Now that I’m working here, I can become more independent and use what I earn to support my family back in America. I could not be more against the Luddites, their views on these effective machines are utterly short-sighted. If only they would appreciate these gifts as much as I do, and see how much good they bring to everyone's life. I plan on sticking up for the mill owners and showing my support by continuing my hard work in the mill.