Manchester, England, is considered the birthplace of the modern working class. Its rapid industrialization during the 19th century, fueled by the cotton trade and the transatlantic slave trade, created abysmal living conditions for workers, inspiring the theories of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. The city witnessed significant workers' movements and protests, culminating in the Peterloo Massacre of 1819. Manchester's struggles for workers' rights became a global symbol, influencing social justice movements worldwide and shaping political discourse on working-class issues.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.