question_answer 8)

Explain briefly what the open field system meant to rural people in the 18th century England? Look at the system from the point of view of (a) a rich farmer (b) a labourer (c) a peasant woman  

Answer:

(a) A Rich Farmer The open field system was not beneficial for the rich farmer. A rich farmer preferred to expand his land holding by enclosing the open land. In the 18th century, the second round of enclosing open fields took place to increase grain production.   (b) A Labourer All villagers had access to common land or the open fields. The small poor farmers and labourers used the open fields for grazing sheep and cows. They fished in the rivers and ponds and hunted rabbit in common forests. For the poor labourer the open common land was essential for survival. It supplemented their meagre income, sustained their cattle and helped them tide over bad times when the crops failed.   (c) A Peasant Woman The poor woman collected fuelwood for fire and berries and fruit for food during the time of open fields and commons. So, it was beneficial to peasant women.