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During the Industrial Revolution of the 1800s, many families were living in impoverished conditions around the country. Children, as young as 5 years old, often had to work alongside their parents for long hours and lower wages. (Click photos for more information.) After an influx of opportunity-seeking immigrants in the 1840s brought more children to America for labor, the problem got worse. These families were used to hard work, hard times and children "earning their keep."