3) Contemporary Attitudes Towards The Poor 3: Protestant Work Ethic

Question 1

What did Protestants think about a person’s wealth?

Answer 1

Protestants thought that a person’s wealth reflected his position before God. Poverty was therefore seen as a sign of sinfulness and may explain their unsympathetic attitude.

Question 2

Having said this, what do historians such as Professor Jordan argue?

Answer 2

Some historians such as Professor Jordan argue that Protestants in England and Wales were generous towards the poor, and contributed greatly to charity.