Child labor returns to the United States: A society moving in reverse

In the 1800s, the capitalists justified the exploitation of child labor on the grounds that it would “prevent the habitual idleness and degeneracy” and teach “habits of industry,” as one study said. Today, virtually identical arguments are being made to justify the rollback of child labor laws. Above: This 1911 photo shows boys employed at the Hughestown Borough Coal Co. in Pittston, Pennsylvania.