Working-Class Self-Help in Nineteenth-Century England

<p>First published in 1995 this book provides a readable survey of the three major forms of working-class self-help in nineteenth century England: the trade unions the friendly societies and the co-operative movement. It is accessible to an introductory student readership as well as providing a critical appraisal of all types and forms of self-help available to the industrial working-class. Unlike former studies the author examines trade unionism alongside friendly societies and the co-operative movement and shows how each developed in response to the challenge of industrialization and the demands of urban industrial life. The strengths and limitations of self-help approaches are assessed and wider issues of working-class culture and identity are examined.</p><p>This book will be of interest to those studying the history of social welfare class and industrial Britain.</p>