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The Homecoming, (1838), 1934
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The Homecoming, (1838), 1934
The Homecoming of the Tolpuddle Martyres, March 17, 1838. The Tolpuddle Martyrs were a group of 19th century agricultural labourers from Dorset who were convicted of swearing a secret oath as members of the Friendly Society of Agricultural Labourers. The rules of the society show it was clearly structured as a friendly society and operated as a trade-specific benefit society. At the time, friendly societies had strong elements of what would now be considered trade unions. Before 1824/25 the Combination Acts had outlawed combining or organising to gain better working conditions. The Tolpuddle Martyrs were subsequently sentenced to transportation to Australia. Their convictions caused public outcry and 800, 000 signatures were collected for their release. The march organised by thier supporters was one of the first successful political marches in the UK, and all, except James Hammett (who had a previous criminal record for theft) were released in 1836. From The Book of The Martyrs of Tolpuddle: 1834-1934, published by The Trades Union Congress General Council, 1934
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Media ID 14959544
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Celebration Celebrations Cheering Dorset Homecoming Martyr Martyrdom Returning Tolpuddle Martyrs Tolpuddle
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in history - "The Homecoming of the Tolpuddle Martyrs, March 17,1838". In this powerful image, we witness the triumphant return of a group of agricultural laborers from Dorset who were unjustly convicted for their involvement in the Friendly Society of Agricultural Labourers. During the early 19th century, friendly societies played a crucial role in advocating for better working conditions. However, these organizations faced severe restrictions due to the Combination Acts. The Tolpuddle Martyrs defied these laws by swearing an oath as members of their society and were subsequently sentenced to transportation to Australia. Their conviction sparked widespread outrage across Britain. Overwhelmed by public support, with an astounding 800,000 signatures collected for their release, the government was compelled to reconsider. This historic march organized by their supporters marked one of the first successful political demonstrations in UK history. Published within "The Book of The Martyrs of Tolpuddle: 1834-1934" by The Trades Union Congress General Council in 1934 (not affiliated with any company), this print serves as a poignant reminder of resilience and solidarity against injustice. It immortalizes the emotional homecoming moment when all but one martyr returned home after enduring years of separation and hardship. Through this image's timeless lens, we are transported back to that pivotal day when justice prevailed over oppression and unity triumphed over adversity.
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