The Daring Exploits of Highwaymen in 18th Century England and Scotland

Highwaymen were groups of armed robbers who preyed on travelers and coaches on the highways of England and Scotland in the 17th and 18th centuries. They were often disaffected soldiers or former criminals who had turned to crime as a way to make a living.

Highwaymen typically operated in groups of two or three, using their speed and agility to overtake coaches and rob their passengers. They were known for their bravery and cunning, and many became legendary figures in popular culture. Some famous highwaymen include Dick Turpin, who was hanged in 1739 for his crimes, and the notorious gang leader, Jack Sheppard, who was eventually captured and executed in 1724.

Highwaymen were a significant problem in the 18th century, and they were often the subject of government crackdowns and public outrage. The authorities responded to the threat posed by highwaymen by increasing the number of watch houses and patrols on the highways, and by introducing new laws and penalties for those convicted of robbery. Despite these efforts, however, highwaymen continued to thrive throughout the century, and their exploits remain a fascinating part of British history and folklore.