Poor Laws

The Poor Laws were a set of laws in England, originating in the 16th century, designed to address poverty and support the needy. They established a system for local authorities to provide aid to the poor, typically through workhouses, where individuals could receive food and shelter in exchange for labor. The laws aimed to manage poverty by distinguishing between the deserving and undeserving poor, but they often led to harsh conditions for those in the workhouses. Over time, the laws evolved and were reformed, influencing modern welfare systems in various countries.