Prosperity and Depression

• The first half of the sixteenth century saw high inflation. In general, it was a time of hardship for the mass of the population.
• This was a contributory factor in the Pilgrimage of Grace, which was as much economic as it was religious.
• The wealthy, in particular, the gentry, were able to benefit from the rapid sale of the proceeds of the dissolution of the monasteries.
• Increased landholdings meant increased social standing. Gentry families came to dominate counties and served as Knights of the Shire (MPs).
• Gentry served as JPs, who were the only form of local government apart from the Parish.