Topic 2: Nature of Crimes Flashcards
What were common crimes of the medieval era described as?
- “disturbing the king’s peace”
- E.g. Treason, revolt, sheltering criminals, blasphemy, heresy
What were examples of crimes particular to the medieval period?
- Forest Laws - hunting, cutting down trees in the king’s forest
What was scolding?
The use of offensive language in public
What did treason include in the medieval period?
Defying the authority of the head of the family
What were outlaw gangs?
Criminals on the run
What are examples of medieval rebellion?
- Peasants Revolt 1381
- Cornish Rebellion 1497
How many vagabonds were there estimated to be in Elizabethan England?
10,000
How big were gangs of smugglers in the Industrial Era?
50-100
Who protected gangs of smugglers (Industrial Era)?
- A batsman
- Gangs usually armed
Why did smuggling increase in the Industrial Era?
There was an increase in taxes on goods called custom duties and lack of patrols on the coast
When did smuggling decline?
When the government reduced duties and increased patrol
What was highway robbery linked to?
- Increased trade and secluded areas of road outside London
- More travellers carrying goods and money
What were footpads?
Highwaymen on foot who attacked pedestrians
Who was a famous highwayman?
Dick Turpin
Why did highway robbery decline?
- Busier roads
- Horse patrols outside London
- Banknotes could be traced
