blue collar etymology

Etymology:

The term "blue collar" originated in the early 20th century. It derives from the color of the overalls and work shirts commonly worn by manual laborers during that period.

Meaning:

Blue collar refers to occupations that involve physical labor and are typically associated with lower levels of education and social status. It is often contrasted with "white collar" jobs, which require higher levels of education and are generally considered more prestigious.

Origin:

The concept of a blue-collar workforce emerged during the Industrial Revolution. As factories expanded and the demand for manual labor increased, a growing number of workers began to wear overalls and other functional clothing in their workplaces. The blue color of these garments became synonymous with the working class.

In the early 1900s, the term "blue collar" gained widespread usage in labor unions and political discourse. It was often used to distinguish between workers who performed physical labor and those who held salaried, office-based jobs.

Over time, the term "blue collar" has evolved to include a wider range of occupations beyond traditional manual labor. It now encompasses workers in the construction, manufacturing, transportation, and other industries that require physical exertion and technical skills.

Examples:

  • Factory workers
  • Construction workers
  • Electricians
  • Plumbers
  • Carpenters
  • Mechanics
  • Truck drivers

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