question_answer

  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 who preferred to expand his land holding by enclosing the open land. In the 18th century, the second round of enclosing open field 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 rabbits in common forests. For the poor labourer, the open common land was essential for survival. It supplemented their meager income, sustained their cattle and helped them tide over bad times when the crops failed. (c) A Peasant Woman For her family, the poor woman collected fuel wood for fire; berries and fruits for food. Common lands helped her tide over bad times when crops failed. So, it was beneficial to a peasant woman.