Whitechapel- Why Was H Division's Job Difficult

Question 1

Violent Demonstrations

Answer 1

Severe poverty in Whitechapel could lead to protests and demonstrations.

Question 2

The Bessarabian Tigers and Odessians

Answer 2

The Bessarabian Tigers and Odessians were two gangs made up of immigrants from Eastern Europe. They demanded protection money from small business owners. Those who refused had their shop/stall smashed up.

Question 3

Gangs

Answer 3

The gangs would often cause violence and attack each other.

Question 4

Alcohol

Answer 4

Many poor residents drank alcohol to escape their terrible lives. Drunkenness could often turn to violence and alcoholics sometimes to get money for more drink.

Question 5

How many brothels and prostitutes were estimated to be in Whitechapel by 1888

Answer 5

By 1888 it was estimated there were 62 brothels and 1200 prostitutes in Whitechapel.

Question 6

Why did many women turn to prostitution?

Answer 6

Women found it even harder than men to find jobs and many had to become prostitutes. It was not yet illegal but seen as a social problem.

Question 7

Why did women work on the streets instead of brothels?

Answer 7

Some prostitutes couldn’t afford a room. They had to work on the street instead where they were vulnerable to assault and rape.