Question

Explain one difference between enclosure movement of late eighteenth century and the earlier one. What factors let the British parliament to pass enclosure acts?

Answer 1

. From the 16th century onwards the economy of open fields and common lands had started changing. With the rise in the price of wool, rich farmers wanted to expand wool production to earn profits. They wanted to improve their sheep breeds and ensure good feed for them. They wanted to do this by controlling large areas of land in compact blocks to allow improved breeding. Division and enclosing of common land started. Hedges were built around holdings to separate one's property from others. Another factor was the new demand for grain. This happened in the 18th century. Land was being enclosed for grain production. English population expanded rapidly during the time. In addition, England during this time was industrialising. More and more people began to move to urban areas. They had to buy foodgrains from the markets. Enclosures were required to make long-term investments on land and plan crop rotations to improve the soil. These enclosures also allowed the richer landlords to expand land under their control and produce more for the market.

Answer 2

Explanation:

Enclosures pushed thousands of peasants out the countryside or resulted in abject poverty for those who remained. Many remained as prosperous tenant farmers, small landowners or wage earners. ---As much as 50% percent of England's farmland was already enclosed by 1750.