mar 29, 1773 - English Parliament passes Enclosure Act

Description:

Farms had previously been owned in common in the open-field system. However, during the agricultural revolution in Britain, several wealthy innovators began enclosure as a method to consolidate holdings into efficient, compact fields. This was resisted by peasant farmers, who cherished their common rights and did not want their land taken from them. However, enclosure would be greatly supported by Parliament from 1760-1815. A class of rural poor was created out of what had previously been small peasant farmers. While the system would somewhat coexist, this would undoubtedly have a great impact on the emergence of the industrial revolution in Britain.

Added to timeline:

Date:

Images: