What was the Luddites' primary response to the Industrial Revolution?

The Luddites, a group of skilled artisans in the early 19th century, primarily responded to the Industrial Revolution by protesting against machine use. Their protests emerged in the context of significant changes brought by industrialization, which included the introduction of mechanized textile production that threatened their livelihoods. The Luddites viewed these machines as a threat that undermined their traditional skills, reduced their jobs, and lowered wages, leading to widespread social and economic disruption.

In their protests, Luddites famously engaged in acts of machine breaking, targeting factories and the machinery they believed were responsible for their plight. This direct action was a form of resistance against the rise of industrial capitalism and the dehumanizing aspects of factory work. Their movement highlights the tension between technological progress and the rights of workers during the Industrial Revolution, making it clear that their opposition was rooted in the desire to protect their economic interests and traditional ways of life.