Poverty Flashcards
How did the population change during Elizabeths reign?
It increased from 3 million to over 4 million.
How did population increase affect food availability?
Food production didn’t keep pace with the population growth. There were often food shortages.
When did England suffer several poor harvests?
1550s and 1560s
How did prices for food change in comparison to wages?
Food prices increased at a higher rate than wages, causing serious hardship for the poor.
What and when was the ‘Statue of Artificers’?
In 1563. It set a maximum daily wage for skilled workers which made it even more difficult for workers.
How did Henry VIII debasing the coinage cause poverty in Elizabeths early reign?
He issued coins that were not pure gold or silver and had other metals mixed in. Businessmen believed these coins were not as valuable so they raised their prices.
What was it called when each farmer only grew enough crops to supply himself and his family?
Subsistence-level farming
How did landowners change their farming techniques to make more money?
They enclosed their fields to create a few large farms. These enclosed farms required fewer labourers and farmers who rented land were evicted leaving them unemployed and homeless.
What did Henry VIII do between 1536 and 1541?
Closed down England’s monasteries and sold off their land- ‘dissolution of the monasteries’.
Why was the dissolution of the monasteries bad for poor people?
The monasteries had provided many social functions including providing support for many poor, ill and disabled people.
Traditionally, what were the main sources of support for the poor? How did this change during Elizabeths reign?
Charities, monasteries and other organisations that helped the poor. During Elizabeths reign, poverty had become so bad that these charitable donations by individuals were not enough.
Why did the government fear an uprise in rising poverty levels?
They feared it was a serious threat to law and order. As poverty rose, so did crime and the poor might rise in rebellion if poverty wasn’t tackled.
What were ‘The Helpless Poor’
Those who were unable to support themselves including young orphans and the elderly, sick or disabled
Who were ‘The Deserving Poor’
People who wanted to work but could not find a job in their home town or village.
Who were ‘The Undeserving Poor’
Beggars, criminals and people who refused to work. Also vagabonds.
