Early Modern Britain (1500s - 1700s)

• What occurred during Early Modern Britain in terms of religion?

  There were changes to the dominant religion (reformation). Henry VIII broke from the Roman Catholic Church and created the Church of England. This was done so he could annul his first marriage. The King became head of the church rather than the pope.
• What branch of Christianity in Early Modern Britain became a crime to practise? What was the aftermath of this criminalisation?

  Roman Catholicism became a crime known as heresy. This is defined as a belief contrary to dominant religious doctrine.

  • Monasteries were dissolved so Henry VIII could absorb the wealth.
  • Charity of food offered to the poor by monasteries were no longer available.
• What were the three societal changes that impacted crime?

  1. Increasing populations led to diminishing resources and employment.
  2. Poverty increased.
  3. People went hungry.
• What was the result of increasing poverty?

  The result of increasing poverty was new types of criminals: "the sturdy beggar."

  • Bristlers: People who used loaded dice in gambling scams.
  • Counterfeit Crank: A beggar who pretended to be sick to scam money from people.
  • Baretop Trickster: Women who flashed men in order to lure them into a mugging.
  • Priggers and Prances: Horse thieves.
  • Rufflers: Ex-military men who beat people up for money.