The Evolution of Work Week Norms: From Overworked Days to 40 Hours

Before the 40-hour work week became the norm, workers typically faced much longer hours. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was not uncommon for laborers to work 50 to 60 hours per week, sometimes even more.

Push for a Shorter Work Week

The push for a shorter work week gained momentum during early labor movements. One significant milestone was the introduction of the eight-hour work day, which became a central demand of labor unions. The slogan 'Eight hours for work, eight hours for rest, eight hours for what we will,' became a rallying cry for workers.

Role of Companies and Legislation

In the United States, the Ford Motor Company played a pivotal role in popularizing the 40-hour work week. By adopting it in 1914, the company set a new standard. The Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 eventually established the 40-hour work week as the standard in many industries. Ford led the way, reducing working hours and providing better working conditions to attract and retain skilled workers.

Historical Context and Working Conditions

Most people worked from "can to can't," meaning 12 to 14 hours a day, six days a week, with Sundays off. This was common in mills and factories, and there were no labor laws to protect workers. Companies could force workers to work long hours, and there was no set wage; employers could pay whatever they wanted. There was no overtime pay, and there were no job protections.

Worst Case Scenarios

Long working hours were not uncommon. Workers faced 6 to 7 days a week, 8 to 10 hours a day. In sectors like manufacturing, this was even more prevalent. There were no labor laws to protect workers, and companies often hired children and women for simple jobs. Books detailing the history of the labor movement and the creation of unions and labor laws provide insights into this era.

Modern Day Implications

Today, small business owners who work alone or with just a few employees often work 50 to 60 hours a week, Monday through Saturday, to keep their small businesses functioning. Profits can be thin, and competition from large retailers is fierce. As a result, these business owners and farmers often find themselves working long hours to stay afloat. Many farmers work 60 or more hours in planting and harvesting seasons, with dairy farmers also putting in long hours, often 4 a.m. to 4 p.m., milking cows and ensuring they have enough feed.

Conclusion

The transition from the overworked days of the past to the 40-hour work week was a long and hard-fought journey. It involved the efforts of labor unions, forward-thinking companies, and supportive legislation. While the 40-hour work week provides some balance, the continuous demand in certain sectors means many still work long hours.