Crime in industrial Britain

• What was a significant change in the nature of crimes during 1700-1900?

  There were few brand-new crimes, but changes in how crimes were committed.
• What factor contributed to the dramatic rise in crime rates during this period?

  Increased crimes against property.
• What types of crimes increased from 1700 to around 1850?

  Street theft, highway robbery, drunk and disorderly behavior, prostitution, and public disorder.
• Why did people traveling more lead to increased crime rates?

  Fewer people knew each other, leading to less tightly knit communities.
• How did larger towns contribute to crime rates?

  Larger towns made it easier for criminals to escape being caught.
• What led to the rise of 'professional' criminals during this period?

  Criminals formed dens or gangs of thieves.
• What was a consequence of extreme poverty during this period?

  It led to a rise in 'survival crimes', such as stealing food.
• What law was enacted in 1772 to reduce highway robbery?

  It became a capital crime to be armed and in disguise on a high road.
• How did mounted patrols and the growth of railways affect highway robbery?

  They helped reduce instances of highway robbery.
• When did highway robbery disappear completely?

  In the 1830s.
• What contributed to the increase in highway robbery in the 18th century?

  Improved roads, increased trade, and isolated roads made it easier to commit robbery.
• Who were two famous highwaymen mentioned in the study material?

  Dick Turpin and Tom King.
• How did public perception of highwaymen like Dick Turpin change?

  They were often seen as heroes despite committing violent crimes.
• What law was enacted in 1723 regarding poaching?

  The Waltham Black Act made poaching a capital crime.
• Why did many view the poaching laws as unfair?

  Many believed the laws were too harsh for common practices.
• What happened to many poaching laws in 1823?

  Many poaching laws were repealed.
• What was the Bloody Code?

  Laws making poaching and highway robbery capital crimes.
• How did public perception of smugglers differ from that of the authorities?

  Many viewed smugglers as heroes who provided cheap goods.
• Why did smuggling increase from 1740-1850?

  High taxes on imported goods led to increased smuggling.
• What was the role of mounted customs officers in combating smuggling?

  They tried to prosecute smugglers but faced difficulties.
• What happened to taxes in the 1840s regarding smuggling?

  Taxes were cut, leading to a decrease in smuggling.
• What were the different attitudes towards highwaymen in 18th century society?

  • Some viewed them as heroes.
  • Others saw them as criminals.
• What were two reasons for the decline in highway robbery in the 19th century?

  1. Mounted patrols and railways reduced opportunities for robbery.
  2. Legal changes made it riskier to commit highway robbery.
• What happened to witchcraft prosecutions after the Civil War?

  The number of prosecutions declined.
• What act repealed all laws concerning witchcraft?

  The Witchcraft Act of 1736.
• What were the consequences for people claiming to use magic after the repeal of witchcraft laws?

  They were subject to fines or imprisonment.
• Despite changes in attitudes, what persisted among some people regarding witchcraft?

  Some still clung to their superstitious beliefs.