Changing the definitions of crime c1700-c1900 Flashcards
When were custom officers introduced to track down smugglers?
1690
When were import duties lowered?
The 1780s by William Pitt (Priminister) then again in the 19th century. Smuggling drops as it is no longer profitable.
When did the government introduce import duties?
17th century.
Which goods being taxed in the 18th century caused an increase in smuggling?
wine, cloth, and spirits.
Who was the Hawkhurst gang? When did they operate? Who were their leaders and when did they get caught?
A smuggling gang who controlled long stretches of the southeast. they operated from 1735-1749. leaders were Arthur Grey and Thomas Hill, both caught and hanged in 1748 and 1749.
Why was smuggling a social crime?
Many benefited.
- Smugglers were viewed as heroes.
- locals collaborated with gangs, unloaded boats, and hid goods.
- Powerful upper class bought cheap goods so would conceal smuggling rather than report it.
What practical issues did custom officers face whilst tackling smugglers?
Smugglers worked under cover of darkness and miles of unpoliced coastline made it easy to find a secluded coast to unload their cargo.
What act was passed to deal with poaching gangs?
The 1723 Black Act, making poaching a capital offence and making it illegal to blacken your face (Disguise), carrying snares, and owning dogs that were suitable for poaching could be punished by fines or a prison sentence.
When was the Black Act repealed?
1823
What did you need to have in order to hunt?
You had to be a landowner whose land was worth more than £100 a year.
What caused the increase in a highway robberies in the 18th century?
Better roads, more goods being moved around due to trade. No credit or debit cards to safely keep money and only a few banks. Stagecoach services (Many items to steal).
What did the growth of towns mean for highway robbery?
This meant that the villages and countrysides were less populated and there were many isolated roads where highway robbery could take place.
Who was Black Harry?
A man who robbed “Pack-mule” trains. He was caught and hung in Wardlow mires.
When was the death penalty introduced for highway men and how was it defined?
1772, Anyone found armed and disguised on a highway was charged with the death penalty.
Why was highway robbery treated as a serious crime?
- disrupted travel between towns
- The crime was committed on the king’s highway
- it could involve the theft of mailbags and so disrupt the postal services.
