Theme 6: Resistance and Reform Reshape Industrial Capitalism

Industrial capitalism in 1900 was substantially different from industrial capitalism in 1800. Child labor had been banned, working hours had been reduced, public health had improved, suffrage had expanded, and unions were legally recognized. These changes were not given by capitalists; they were won by workers' movements, reformers, and political pressure. The relationship between markets and democracy was being renegotiated, and that renegotiation continues today.