The power-loom riots of 1826 took place in Lancashire, England, in protest against the economic hardship suffered by traditional handloom weavers caused by the widespread introduction of the much more efficient power loom.[1] Rioting broke out on 24 April and continued for three days, widely supported by the local population, who were sympathetic to the weavers' plight.
The rioting ended after 20 or so of the ringleaders were arrested. Some local manufacturers subsequently attempted to introduce a minimum wage for weavers, but were unable to obtain the support of the UK government to enforce it.