Do you know of any significant differences between the market economies of Europe and the US in the 19th century, especially concerning government restriction of workers’ rights?
For example, I know that effective unionizing had been banned in Europe in fear of a socialist revolution. This is often confused with free market measures, while it was actually capitalists and royalty conspiring against workers.
The reason I ask is because I keep running into the argument that 19th century capitalism was “unrestrained exploitation” and impoverished the masses. This point is used as the basis to justify state welfare as an aid for the exploited workforce. I don’t buy that line since workers in the US were (as far as I know) able to accumulate wealth without relying on the much-praised welfare state. However, I don’t want to defend 19th century capitalism in Europe either as long as I don’t know the details.
Any help would be very much appreciated.