Destroyed machinery that they believed threatened their jobs. Followed Ned Lud in a Europe-wide armed uprising against the bourgeoisie. Formed labor unions. Began to demand universal male suffrage in England. Are often considered the first socialists of the Industrial Revolution.

The Luddites, active in the early 19th century, were skilled artisans in England who protested against the mechanization of their trades, fearing that machines would replace their jobs. Their movement wasn’t just about destroying machinery; it also symbolized a deeper struggle against industrial capitalism and the loss of traditional craftsmanship, echoing concerns that still resonate in today’s debates about technology and employment. The legacy of the Luddites is significant as it laid the groundwork for modern labor rights movements. Their actions helped inspire the formation of labor unions, which advocated for workers' rights, fair wages, and better working conditions. This historical struggle was fundamental in shaping policies around workers’ rights and has influenced contemporary labor movements across the globe.