A History of Work in Britain, 1880-1950

This book discusses the extent to which work was transformed in Britain between 1880-1950. Chapters explore: the historiography and theorizing of work; the changing labor force; the debates on deskilling, and work intensification; employers and the management of labor, work conditions, and occupational health, the role of the state in the workplace; women, gender relations, and inequalities at work; trade unions, work and politics. The book emphasizes the diversity of work experience, the uneven pace of change and the weaknesses in Marxist theories of the changing nature of work. Workers emerge as both victims and active players, capable of regulating work conditions, relationships, and the labor process, with the trade unions increasingly playing a vital, protective role.