An analysis of labour conditions and contribution towards national movement under British Era
Author(s): Archana Kumari Sah
Abstract: During British colonial rule, India’s labouring population endured widespread exploitation rooted in an economic model designed to serve imperial interests. Workers in industries such as textiles, mining, railways, and plantations faced grueling conditions, long hours, minimal wages, and no legal safeguards particularly affecting women and children. Early legislative interventions, such as the Factories Act of 1881, offered little relief and were largely symbolic. However, increasing urban exposure, the rise of print media, and reformist ideologies catalyzed labour consciousness. The formation of the Madras Labour Union and the All-India Trade Union Congress marked a turning point, as organized labour began to assert both economic rights and political agency. Labour movements gradually aligned with the national freedom struggle, amplifying demands for both industrial justice and political autonomy. Strikes and protests became tools to challenge colonial authority and assert collective identity. Labour leaders often collaborated with nationalist figures, bridging class-based agitation with anti-colonial movements. The shared vision of Swaraj helped unite diverse working communities under a common cause. In this way, Indian labour history reflects not only the oppression of colonial rule but also the resilience and rising political consciousness of the working class. The growth of trade unionism also led to the development of class solidarity across regions and industries. Labour newspapers and pamphlets played a critical role in shaping workers' awareness and unity. The participation of workers in national movements disrupted colonial economic networks and demonstrated the power of organized resistance. Women workers, despite facing double marginalization, emerged as significant participants in strikes and protests. Ultimately, labour activism became an indispensable part of the broader freedom movement, contributing to both industrial reform and national awakening.
DOI: 10.22271/27069109.2025.v7.i6a.436Pages: 40-45 | Views: 26 | Downloads: 10Download Full Article: Click Here
How to cite this article:
Archana Kumari Sah.
An analysis of labour conditions and contribution towards national movement under British Era. Int J Hist 2025;7(6):40-45. DOI:
10.22271/27069109.2025.v7.i6a.436
