Töökojaid

Töökojaid, also known as workhouses or poorhouses, were institutions established in many European countries during the 19th century to provide a place for the indigent and destitute to live and work. These establishments were often funded by public funds and were intended to offer a form of social welfare, providing a means of support for those who were unable to care for themselves. The primary functions of töökojaid included providing food, shelter, and employment for the residents. The work performed by the residents was typically unskilled labor, such as farming, weaving, or other manual tasks, which were often used to produce goods for the local community or the institution itself.

The conditions within töökojaid varied widely depending on the country and the specific institution. In some cases, they were designed to be humane and self-sustaining, with residents having the opportunity to learn new skills and improve their circumstances. In other instances, they were overcrowded, poorly maintained, and provided little in the way of meaningful work or support. The moral and ethical implications of töökojaid have been a subject of debate, with critics arguing that they perpetuated poverty and dependency, while proponents maintained that they offered a necessary form of social assistance.

The decline of töökojaid began in the mid-20th century as social welfare systems evolved and expanded. Many institutions were closed or converted into other types of facilities, and the concept of providing work and support for the poor through centralized institutions gave way to more decentralized and individualized forms of assistance. Today, the legacy of töökojaid can still be seen in the history of social welfare and the evolution of public policy towards poverty alleviation.