Simon Fowler

Ruth Paley

Did you know that until 1823 suicides were buried at crossroads to prevent them returning to haunt the living? Or that until the Contagious Diseases Act was repealed in 1886, women in naval ports who were suspected of prostitution could be medically examined by force? Most families have a skeleton. You may have already discovered yours via the grapevine or your own research. Or you may simply be intrigued by the dark side of our past. This popular history explores the behaviour of our disreputable ancestors from the unfortunate to the criminal, and introduces a host of colourful characters including 17th century witches, 18th century 'mollies' and Victorian baby farmers. Thematically arranged by skeleton, the text also describes how society punished and provided for its 'offenders' - as well as the changing attitudes that could ultimately bring acceptance.

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