About

Discover how the central and local state tried to control the lives of the poorest citizens of England and Wales.

From systemic harassment, ritual humiliation and the loss of freedom, these actions of petty tyranny became entrenched within workhouse regimes under both the Old and New Poor Laws creating ‘punitive expectations’ in successive generations of poor families.

Focusing on the period from the 1780s through to the outbreak of the First World War, Paul Carter from The National Archives and Steve King from Nottingham Trent University will discuss how these everyday measures led to the creation of a framework of oppression in disciplining the poor.

Online, Live-streamed on Vimeo

Please note : 

This event will discuss historical violence. Whilst this will be dealt with sensitively the content may not be suitable for all. Our collections contain ideas, language and imagery from original records which reflect historical viewpoints and attitudes. Some may be considered offensive. However, we think it important to show them here as accurate representations of the record to help us understand the past.