Illustrations of Political Economy, Vol. IX (in 9 Volumes)

Set against the backdrop of England's free-market economy in the early 1830s, the collection of 24 short stories explores critical social and political issues such as overpopulation, labor conflicts, and the struggles of the working class. Despite being viewed as politically radical by some, these narratives resonated with readers and significantly influenced later socially aware writers like Charles Dickens and Elizabeth Gaskell. The stories provide a poignant commentary on the challenges faced by society during this transformative period.