Why was it necessary for entire families to work?

Answer 1

It was often necessary for entire families to work due to economic hardships and the need for multiple incomes to meet basic living expenses. In many historical contexts, such as during the Industrial Revolution, low wages and high costs of living compelled families to pool their labor to survive. Additionally, children's contributions were essential in agricultural and industrial settings, where every member's effort was needed to sustain the household. This collective labor model was a response to societal and economic pressures that demanded all hands on deck.