Luddites weren't afraid that they would be replaced by machines, they were skilled weavers who had already been replaced by programmable looms. Both their statu

Luddites weren't afraid that they would be replaced by machines, they were skilled weavers who had already been replaced by programmable looms. Both their status/role in society and their income were significantly decreased as the available jobs switched from artisanal weaving to operating industrial looms in a factory.