Ten Hours Act

The Ten Hours Act, enacted in the United Kingdom in 1847, was a significant piece of legislation aimed at regulating the working hours of women and children in textile factories. This act was a culmination of a growing movement to address the harsh conditions and exploitation of child labor that emerged with the Industrial Revolution.123

Key aspects of the movement leading to the act include:
* Early Efforts: Initial laws like the Health and Morals of Apprentices Act of 1802 and the Factory Act of 1819 attempted to limit working hours and mandate education for child laborers, but lacked effective enforcement.3
* Advocacy: Figures such as Richard Oastler, Lord Ashley (later the 7th earl of Shaftesbury), and Michael Thomas Sadler championed the cause, advocating for a 10-hour workday for individuals under 18.31
* Legislation: The Ten Hours Act finally established a limit of 10 hours per day for women and children in textile factories, marking a crucial step towards improving worker welfare and establishing regulated working hours.12