The Industrial Revolution took place in the 18th century in the United Kingdom before spreading across Europe. It ushered in a new era in which tasks such as textile work and agriculture were handled by machines that were faster and more efficient than people. The advent of this mechanization allowed for the mass production of many things that would improve the lives of many; however, people who were no longer needed for agricultural work were left without work. During this time, families had to abandon their comfortable country lives and homes and move to ever-crowded cities in search of work. Factory owners employed both adults and children. The owners have streamlined their operations by implementing strict rules. The Sadler Commission's Child Labor Report and Factory Rules offer a glimpse into a dark time for British citizens. Conditions for adult and child workers of the Industrial Revolution were relentless in the application of strict rules, long hours, and an unsanitary and, at times, dangerous environment. Children of the Industrial Revolution perhaps suffered more than adults. Concerned about child labor practices, the Sadler Commission investigated British factories and presented its “Report on Child Labour”. When they interviewed former child worker, Matthew Crabtree, the following came out: “At what age did you first go to work in one?” asked Michael Thomas Sadler, at which point Mr. Crabtree replied, “Eight” (Perry, 98). The owners realized that children were easier to train and control and were forced to work as early as the age of eight. They worked long hours in factories and were denied education. At such a young age, education and family support would have... middle of paper... solution resulted in difficult times for poor and uneducated British citizens. There was really no way to improve either situation. Adults and children alike suffered greatly at the hands of ambitious factory owners and worked tirelessly in environments that often took their lives. Although many retained or increased wealth and the overall quality of life improved for most, the mistreatment of workers proved to be a plague that overshadowed the advent of mechanization in the Industrial Revolution. It wasn't long before labor reform advocates helped enact laws that protected factory workers, starting with the amount of hours they were allowed to work. Many of the rules imposed on workers are still in place today, just less stringent. The Industrial Revolution laid the foundation for modern factory life and the economy of a mechanized world.