Statute of Cambridge Regulates Poor Relief and Labour Mobility
Poet involved
What happened
The Statute of Cambridge, enacted in 1388, sought to regulate the movement of laborers and the poor in England, reflecting the socio-economic challenges of the time. This legislation required local communities to care for the 'impotent poor' while restricting the mobility of able-bodied laborers, which aimed to stabilize local economies. The statute marked a significant moment in the evolution of social welfare policies and the legal framework surrounding poverty in medieval England.
Literary impact
The Statute of Cambridge regulated poor relief and labor mobility, illuminating the social concerns of late medieval England. This context influenced sermons, drama, and poetry, with writers like Geoffrey Chaucer addressing themes of poverty, charity, and social responsibility in their works.
Source: Wikipedia
