Crime in the Victorian era was a prevalent issue that was deeply rooted in the social and economic conditions of the time. The Victorian era, which lasted from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century, was a time of great industrialization and urbanization. As cities grew and became more crowded, crime rates increased, and law enforcement struggled to keep up. This essay will examine the causes and effects of crime in the Victorian era, as well as the efforts made to combat it.
The Victorian era was marked by a significant increase in crime, much of which was attributed to poverty. The Industrial Revolution brought about a rapid expansion of urban areas and a growth in industry, which led to a substantial increase in poverty. Many of
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The Industrial Revolution brought about significant changes in society, including a shift from rural to urban areas and the growth of industry. This led to the creation of large cities with high populations, where poverty, overcrowding, and unemployment were prevalent. These conditions made people more vulnerable to crime, as they struggled to make ends meet. In particular, theft and burglary were common crimes committed by those living in poverty. Moreover, the rise of industry led to a new type of crime, as factories became targets for theft and sabotage. Additionally, the growth of the railway system made it easier for criminals to transport stolen goods across the country. Overall, industrialization played a significant role in the rise of crime in the Victorian era, and it was only with the introduction of social and economic reforms that the situation began to improve. (“Crime and Poverty in 19th-Century England: The Economy of …show more content…
Dyer was responsible for the deaths of hundreds of infants between 1880 and 1896. She would take in unwanted or illegitimate babies and promise to find them good homes, but instead she would neglect or murder them for profit. Dyer was finally caught in 1896 after the body of a baby was found floating in the Thames River with a piece of paper tied around its neck with Dyer's address on it. Upon searching her home, police discovered the bodies of several other infants. Dyer was found guilty and sentenced to death by hanging, which was carried out in 1896. Her case brought to light the issue of baby farming and the need for better regulation of adoption practices in Victorian England.