National Anti-Sweating League facts for kids
The National Anti-Sweating League was the name used by two groups of people who wanted to make society better. These groups were in Australia and Britain around the years 1900. They worked to stop unfair and harsh working conditions. These bad conditions were often found in places called sweatshops. The League also pushed for a minimum wage, which is the lowest amount of money a worker can be paid.
The League in Australia
The National Anti-Sweating League started in Melbourne, Australia, on July 29, 1895. Reverend A. Gosman was the president. Samuel Mauger was the secretary, and Alfred Deakin was the treasurer. Vida Goldstein was also an important member.
- What they did: These reformers worked hard to improve workers' lives.
- Their success: Because of their efforts, a law called the Factory Act of 1896 was passed. This law helped control how much workers were paid. It made sure wages were fairer.
The League in Britain
A similar National Anti-Sweating League was formed in Britain in 1906. This group included people from different political parties. They held a big meeting over three days in the Guildhall, London.
- Who attended: About 341 people attended this meeting. They represented around two million workers through their trade unions.
- Key members: Important members included Alfred George Gardiner, R. H. Tawney, Mary Reid Macarthur, and Lady Astor. George Shann was the first secretary of this group.
- Their success: The League's campaign led to a new law called the Trade Boards Act 1909. This law created special boards to set minimum wages. These boards were based on the successful system already working in Victoria, Australia.
