How Many Hours Per Day Did People Used to Work in the Past?

It is often cited in anthropology classes that people with Stone-age economies, even in marginalized regions, could sustain a living with just a few hours of labor a day. This raises the question of how labor patterns have evolved over time. To address this, we must consider the variations among different historical contexts, such as the nature of work, the societal structures, and the time periods involved.

The Modern Perspective: 24x7 Availability

When discussing work hours, it is crucial to recognize that the 24/7 operating model is a relatively modern phenomenon. The idea of working around the clock, seven days a week, is a significant departure from historical norms. Despite some industries today offering round-the-clock service, such as healthcare and emergency services, the general expectation for most workers is a 40-hour workweek, Monday through Friday, with weekends off.

Variations Through Time and Context

Work hours have varied greatly depending on the context. For example, the actual number of hours people worked in the past can significantly differ based on the socioeconomic status, geographical location, and the type of work involved. Factors such as gender, ethnicity, and gender roles also played a critical role in determining labor patterns.

The Feudal System and Historical Labour Patterns

Historically, many societies operated under the feudal system, which was prevalent in much of Europe before the modern era. In this system, landowners held the land and rented it to peasants or workers who would cultivate the land and pay rent through produce or a portion of their harvest. This arrangement meant that workers were often tied to the land, and their work was directly tied to the cycle of the natural year, with more work being done during the summer and less during the winter.

Smiths, who were crucial to the production of tools and weapons, often had apprentices who would assist them, with the apprenticeship period typically lasting seven years. Once the apprentices became master tradesmen, they could either set up their own business or take over an existing one. This system ensured a steady flow of skilled labor but also meant that workers were often more self-sufficient and less inclined to seek employment outside of their immediate community.

Historical Shops and Labour Patterns

Traditional shops like inns and taverns have been around for centuries, dating back to the ancient world. Inns served as lodging for travelers, and many also provided meals and drinks. Some of the earliest documented shops date back to the 13th century, such as the Olde Choughy Pharmacy in Italy, which opened in 1221 and was one of the oldest shops. Modern restaurants, however, started much later, with the first recorded restaurant opening in 1725 in Madrid, Casa Botin. These establishments were typically open for long hours, catering to the needs of travelers and local customers.

Local shops and inns commonly had employees who would stay on-site, often including sleeping quarters, to ensure that services were always available. Grocers, inns, and other businesses were essential to community functioning, and their work hours were often determined by the needs of the local populace. It is likely that these establishments were open long into the night, catering to both locals and travelers.

The Industrial Revolution and Cottage Industry

The rise of the Industrial Revolution in the late 18th and early 19th centuries brought about significant changes in work patterns. Prior to this period, many workers would follow the natural rhythms of the sun, working from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week. However, the industrial revolution introduced more standardized work schedules and the concept of a longer workweek. In the UK, the 40-hour workweek, Monday to Friday, was partly a result of the efforts of workers like Samuel Parnell, a New Zealand carpenter who refused to work more than 8 hours per day.

Before the 19th century, Christian societies often followed a seven-day workweek, with Sunday as a day of rest, which was a mandated rest day for both Christians and Jews. This religious tradition influenced work schedules for centuries. The concept of a long weekend, where workers have both Sunday and Saturday off, emerged as a result of this religious calendar.

Contemporary Labour Practices

Today, work hours vary widely depending on the industry and region. Some fields, such as construction and retail, may operate on a 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. schedule, while others, like healthcare, operate around the clock. The 24/7 availability of shops and restaurants in the 1990s in Sydney was a notable feature, allowing for round-the-clock shopping and dining. However, these patterns are increasingly becoming less common, with many businesses opting for more standardized office hours and closing early in the evening.

The historical work patterns and labor conditions highlight the evolution of work practices and the changing needs of society. While the 24/7 availability of certain services is a modern phenomenon, the overall trend has been towards more structured and regulated work schedules, reflecting the changing needs of businesses and individuals.