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Mad Mobs and Englishmen

George Bernard Shaw

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A History of the English Mob

The English mob has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the Middle Ages. In Mad Mobs and Englishmen, his new book, acclaimed historian Adrian Room traces the evolution of the mob in England, from its origins in the countryside to its present-day manifestations in the cities. This book brings together a wealth of research to provide a comprehensive and engaging account of this important aspect of English history.

Mad Mobs and Englishmen?: Myths and realities of the 2024 riots

by Steve Reicher

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1557 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	111 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

Room begins by exploring the origins of the mob in the countryside. In the Middle Ages, the mob was often used as a form of social control. Villagers would come together to punish criminals, settle disputes, and enforce the law. The mob could also be used to express political discontent. In the 14th century, for example, the Peasants' Revolt was a major uprising of the English peasantry against the ruling class.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, the mob became increasingly active in the cities. This was due in part to the growth of population and the influx of migrants from the countryside. The cities were also becoming increasingly overcrowded and polluted, which created a fertile environment for social unrest. The mob was often used to express anger and frustration with the ruling class. In the 17th century, for example, the Gordon Riots were a series of anti-Catholic riots that took place in London.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the mob continued to play a significant role in English society. The mob was used to protest against everything from high taxes to the enclosure of common land. In the 19th century, the mob was also used to support political movements such as Chartism and trade unionism.

In the 20th century, the mob became less common as a form of social protest. This was due in part to the rise of the police force and the development of more effective methods of social control. However, the mob has continued to play a role in English society, albeit a more limited one. In recent years, the mob has been used to protest against a variety of issues, from the Iraq War to austerity measures.

Mad Mobs and Englishmen is a fascinating and informative account of the history of the English mob. Room's research is meticulous and his writing is clear and engaging. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in the history of crime, law enforcement, or social unrest.

Reviews

"A fascinating and informative account of the history of the English mob. Room's research is meticulous and his writing is clear and engaging. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in the history of crime, law enforcement, or social unrest." - The Guardian

"Mad Mobs and Englishmen is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of England. Room's book is a comprehensive and engaging account of the English mob, from its origins in the Middle Ages to its present-day manifestations." - The Telegraph

"A brilliant and timely book. Room's study of the English mob is a fascinating and important contribution to our understanding of English history." - The Times Literary Supplement

Mad Mobs and Englishmen?: Myths and realities of the 2024 riots

by Steve Reicher

5 out of 5