Statute Artificers Quote by Bill Bryson
““The Statute of Artificers of 1563 laid down that all artificers (craftsmen) and laborers “must be and continue at their work, at or before five of the clock in the morning, and continue at work, and not depart, until between seven and eight of the clock at night”—giving an eighty-four-hour workweek.””
About This Quote
Source Book: A Short History of Nearly Everything, 2003
Describes the 1563 Artificers' Statute imposing a 84‑hour workweek, highlighting historic labor exploitation.
In simple terms: Historical labor law forced long hours.
Key Takeaway
Recognize past labor struggles.
Themes
labor history
exploitation
work hours
Mood
informative
critical
Type
historical
educational
When to use this quote
- industrial revolution
- modern work debates
- union movements
Key Concepts
economics
social policy
Questions to Reflect On
- How have labor laws improved since?
- What lessons apply now?
A Different Perspective
Historical context differs from today’s regulations.
