Blackwell Reference Online

Extract

The Luddites occupy a unique place in history, having, despite defeat, bequeathed their name to all future opponents of new technologies. Yet the original “Luddites,” the framework knitters of the east Midlands, fit the stereotype less well than those who followed them, for the “engines of mischief” which threatened the knitters' trade in 1811–12, the “wide frames,” had long been used to make lace cloth. The problem was the innovation of using cloth made from such frames to manufacture stockings from pieces sewn up with a seam, “cut-ups,” rather than producing them “full-wrought” in tubular form on the more complex stocking frame. This change, in a background of rapidly rising food costs, growing anger at falling piece rates, and the accelerating use of “illegal” apprentices, led to violent protests. In early 1811, knitters in the village of Arnold broke into workshops and disabled frames making cut-ups. With no concessions forthcoming, country knitters held a large demonstration in Nottingham. This passed peacefully but later 50 frames were smashed at Arnold. In the following weeks more frames were destroyed in the nearby villages and towns. Hosiers responded with immediate concessions and peace was restored. In the autumn, however, trade worsened and wide frame production increased. In November major disorders proliferated, with frames smashed at Arnold, Bulwell, Baswell, and ... log in or subscribe to read full text