The Rise and Fall of the Highwayman

What happened to highway robbery in the industrial period?

Highway robbery was an increasing problem during the industrial period, and became a serious concern to society. Some highwaymen became notorious.

Why did highway robbery increase?

There were 6 main reasons highway robbery increased in the late 1600s and early 1700s:

• ❖ It had its beginnings in the chaos caused by the Civil War, but by the early 1700s it was more common.
• ❖ As trade increased there was more need to move goods and money around, so business people and ordinary travellers often carried large sums in cash.
• ❖ Turnpike trusts improved many road surfaces in the 18th century, charging travellers a toll to pay for the works. This meant more people travelling on the roads.
• ❖ While towns were growing, the countryside featured many isolated roads where robberies could take place.
• ❖ After wars ended, some demobilised soldiers struggled to find honest ways to make a living, and used their fighting skills as highway robbers instead.
• ❖ Highwaymen could hide and sell their stolen loot in taverns.

Where there any famous highwaymen?

There are 2 key highwaymen who gained notoriety and fame for their exploits:

• ❖ One famous highway robber was Black Harry. He was eventually caught and executed.
• ❖ Perhaps the most famous highwayman was Dick Turpin. He gained a reputation as a heroic gentleman robber, but was accused of burglary, rape and violence before turning his hand to highway robbery. He was hanged in 1739.

Why were highwaymen a concern?

The people and the government became increasingly concerned about highway robbery as the 18th century progressed due to 3 main reasons:

• ❖ Highway robbers were greatly feared by ordinary travellers because of their use of violence, threats, and sometimes murder.
• ❖ The authorities were concerned by the disruption to trade and the postal service.
• ❖ The worst areas for highway robbery were the major trade routes out of London.

Why did highway robbery decline?

There were 5 key developments that meant highway robbery declined just as quickly as it had grown:

• ❖ In 1772 the death penalty was introduced for anyone found armed and in disguise on a high road.
• ❖ Mounted patrols were set up around London. High rewards encouraged informers to report on the activities of highwaymen.
• ❖ The banking system became more effective over time and the number of banks increased. This meant there was less need for people to carry large sums in cash.
• ❖ Stagecoaches were introduced with regular staging posts where tired horses could be changed and travellers could rest for the night.
• ❖ Justices of the Peace refused to license taverns that were frequented by highwaymen.