1) Introduction Flashcards
What did Professor Jordan say about poverty and vagrancy?
Professor Jordan said that poverty and vagrancy was, “the most immediate and pressing concern for government in the 16th century. There is no doubt that vagrancy was widespread and organised and imposed a great burden on rural and village communities.”
When and why did the number of vagrants increase?
During the 15th century due to factors such as the Black Death and the Wars of the Roses.
Where were professional beggars particularly numerous?
In large cities such as London and Norwich.
Who might the government have been influenced by with their repressive attitudes towards the poor?
The church, who saw vagrants as people who had sinned against God.
What was one of the main factors for the government’s attitude towards the poor early on?
Their ignorance of the causes of poverty and vagrancy.
