2) Causes of Poverty 1: Retainers and Ex-servicemen

Question 1

Who were the most dangerous vagrants?

Answer 1

Those who had been trained in arms and had military experience.

Question 2

What two categories did retainers and ex-servicemen fall into?

Answer 2

1. Ex-servicemen

2. Ex-retainers of noble households

Question 3

What were they used to?

Answer 3

They were used to a higher living standard.

Question 4

What did many see vagrancy as?

Answer 4

A means of improving their living standard rather than working.

Question 5

According to Edward Hext, Somerset JP, what did they number per shire?

Answer 5

According to Edward Hext, Somerset JP, they numbered up to 400 per shire and were constantly worrying the local population.

Question 6

What did soldiers do in 1589 when returning home from Portugal?

Answer 6

They rioted in London in 1589.

Question 7

What did the government do to deal with the problem?

Answer 7

They appointed provost-martials.

Question 8

What would happen to any soldier caught begging?

Answer 8

They would forfeit their pensions.