Crime in 1450-1750 Flashcards
What caused an increase in crime? (6 points)
Increase in population, increased unemployment, better roads, more land fenced off, changeds in religious belief and more trade restrictions
How did an increase in population cause an increase in crime?
More people in urban areas, more street criminals and thieves
How did an increase in unemplyment cause an increase in crime?
More people travelled looking for work and begging which became a crime in 16th century
How did better roads cause an increase in crime?
It led to more trade and travel between towns, which led to a new type of thief - highwaymen
How did more fenced off land cause an increase in crime?
It led to an increase in poaching
How did change in religion cause an increase in crime?
It led to ‘heresy’ during 16th century
How did trade restrictions cause an increase in crime?
It led to smugglers smuggling illegal and good that were heavily taxed.
Why were treason charges common? (3 points)
There was more dispute over who should rule.
Some people wanted a ruler with a different religion.
Therefore - punishments were harsh to act as a deterrent
Reasons begging increased (3 points)
Closure of monasteries - took away the support for the poor.
Population increase - less food and less jobs.
Landowners keeping sheep instead of crops - needed less workers.
Why was begging treated harshly (3 points)
People resented the cost of supporting beggars.
Poor people more likely to turn to crimes like theft and sturdy beggars were criminals.
Large amounts of beggars were a threat to people who thought you should know your place in the community.
Why was poaching treated harshly
Rich landowners who made laws protecting own interests.
Seen as challenging the social hierarchy/authority.
Fear of rising crime.
