Enclosure Movement Research Paper

In the 16th century, landlords turned the farmland into grazing and pasture land for sheep, and closed off the common land to the people of England. This was known as the Enclosure Movement. Prior to the Enclosure Movement, the townsmen depended on the common land as a place they could take hay, wood, and many necessities from, so once this area was converted into pasture land, they struggled to find a way to support their livelihood. Raising sheep did not require as many men as farming did, so the majority of townsmen lost their jobs and therefore, their source of money. The Enclosure Movement resulted in lower class having to live out on the streets of England begging for food and money. Two men by the names of William Harrison and Richard

He portrayed the idea of sending the poor of England to America as colonists. Many Englishmen had this idea in mind before, but Hakluyt’s was particularly persuasive. With the hand of Her Majesty, England could send people over by ship to America. In America, the poor could get jobs and own portions of land, giving them the opportunity to feel useful and important. By gathering timber, planting crops, and using the resources around them to create rope, tar, and soap, the new colonists could create a growing colony. Not only would the streets of England be free of beggars, but also England’s territory would expand. In addition, if England planted colonies here, the King of Spain would be hindered from flowing over the land of America. His pride would be deflated, his soldiers would dissolve, and it would prevent him from claiming all of America for himself. However, even though Hakluyt’s idea seems error-free, there are some flaws to consider. Gathering the money to fund this trip would be a challenge, and starting a colony in a completely new country can be overwhelming. There would have to be people willing to teach the colonists how to farm and support themselves, and it would take a while for the colonists to settle in and become familiar with America. Still, with Hakluyt’s plan in the hands of trusted and driven leaders, it would result in a very rewarding outcome. Hakluyt’s plan has an element of risk, but it would give a new beginning to the poor, and help England expand and become more powerful as a