The men and dogs of Staffordshire - extract from Mike Homans fighting dogs

A Hard Life
These men, hardy of frame, forgemen, furnacemen and colliers, with no fear of danger, were also able to bear up to and face physical pain without flinching. Many of them displayed great heroism at pit and foundry accidents, a regular feature of their lives. Disasters were not infrequent; There were no Factory Acts to protect them in those days. The hours were long and arduous, in conditions unsuitable for the lowest form of beast, including intense heat or extreme cold and dampness. Emerging in darkness at the end of the day, covered in dirt, grime, and, at times filth, they headed home. Their homes were sparsely furnished and lit by candel and oil lamps. The men of this era had to be tough and strong to survive. Is it any wonder they looked upon dog-fighting and it's fatalities with no qualm?
In many instances, the courage and 'fight' of the Black Country man was his only asset. Men boys and dogs were expected to show courage, gameness and fighting spirit. The manner of meeting death was also important to these men. It was only acceptable to go down fighting; this was as vital as victory......

Thanx