by Mindy Golub, Lake Forest College
In the Progressive Era, the plight of child labor was brought to a national level. An expanded and candid picture of child labor was painted for the American people, particularly through "muckrakers" and their journalism. The goal of this Webquest is to enable students to discover the rationales and realities of child labor during this time period.
Teacher Introduction
Different Perspectives on Child Labor in the Progressive Era
Child labor is an important element of the Progressive Era. Through muckrakers and their journalism and photographs, child labor was brought to a national level. With the realities of child labor revealed, debate ensued over the benefits of the employment of youths. Some believed that labor taught youngsters a trade and provided much needed extra income to families. There also was the argument that if children did not work, they would be on the street engaging in popular vices, such as gambling. Other people believed that child labor was harmful. Injuries in places of employment were common. There were adverse affects to children's health because of working conditions. Employed children were often too tired or too busy to attend school. Therefore, many young laborers were illiterate and uneducated. A common opinion was that the wages that children earned were unacceptably low. Despite the added income, the extra money would not make that much of an impact on the family's life and quality of living.
How the Idea for the Webquest Originated
Lewis Hine was quoted as saying, "There is work that profits children, and there is work that brings profit only to employers. The object of employing children is not to train them, but to get high profits from their work." This sentiment, among others, prompted people to argue that the employment of children was not "child labor," but "child slavery."
Purpose and Results of the Webquest
This Webquest is designed to have students explore the idea of child labor versus child slavery. That topic is a divisive issue in the Progressive Era. In fact, the Progressive Era itself is a highly debated and contested time period for historians. Therefore, it is essential that students understand that there is no one answer for this question. It is critical that students use the links in this Webquest to support their ultimate decision on the matter. Students should be encouraged to consider their own opinions in light of the information they will gather. They should also understand that this issue was never fully resolved. Consequently, this is not only an exploration of historical information, but it is also a method of gathering insight on one's own values.
Placement of the Webquest Within the Unit
This Webquest could be introduced at almost any point in a unit on the Progressive Era. Some background on the nature and goals of the Progressive Era would be necessary, however, in order to better understand the spirit of reform.
Important Note on Historic Events and Presentism
Students should be reminded that the issues of the past should not be judged by the values of the present. Students must be aware of the circumstances within the time period. While it would be appropriate to note to students that many current labor laws were a result of Progressive Era awareness, it would be inappropriate to look at the past through the eyes of the present.
I hope this Webquest adds to the success of your Progressive Era unit!