Through the Fray, A Tale of the Luddite Riots describes the events that occurred during the early years of industrialization in England. During that time many workers were no longer needed, and work was shifted from the home to the factories. This resulted in widespread dissatisfaction. Also, manufacturing companies were forced to either go out of business due to lowered prices or switch to machines. The resulting social unrest led to a worker's secret society called "King Lud." The members called themselves "Luddites" and tried to stop the spread of mechanization by assassination, arson and general warfare.