History of Stalybridge Good Intent Co-operative Society Ltd

J.H. Hinchliffes' History of the Good Intent Co-operative Society provides a fascinating insight into the social and political conditions appertaining in the cotton districts of south-east Lancashire and north-east Cheshire during the last forty years of the 19th century and the first decade of the 20th. The hopes and aspirations of the cotton and other operatives for improved conditions and to end their subservience to capital is vividly revealed. Within two years of the Good Intent's formation the American Civil War and the resultant mass unemployment arising from the Cotton Famine presented the co-op pioneers with their first major test, although many more were to follow. A fascinating read from start to finish. Includes chapters on Robert Owen and G.J Holyoake.