Enclosure Movement

Definition

The Enclosure Movement was a process in England during the 18th century where open fields and common lands were fenced off into individual plots, primarily to boost agricultural efficiency.

Historical Context

The Enclosure Movement primarily took place in England from the 16th to the 19th century. It refers to the process by which common lands traditionally used for agriculture and pasture were consolidated into individually owned plots through fences, hedges, or walls. This movement was driven by wealthy landowners seeking to increase agricultural efficiency and profits, often at the expense of peasant farmers.

Historical Significance

The Enclosure Movement had profound effects on the social and economic structure of rural society. It contributed to the decline of the feudal system and altered traditional farming practices, leading to increased agricultural productivity but also displacing many small farmers. This displacement helped fuel urbanization and industrialization, as landless peasants moved to cities in search of work, becoming a labor force for emerging industries.

Related terms

Common Land: These are areas owned collectively by a number of persons, or by one person, but over which other people have certain traditional rights, such as to allow their livestock to graze upon it.

Agricultural Revolution: This refers to the unprecedented increase in agricultural production in Britain due to increases in labor and land productivity between the mid-17th and late 19th centuries.

Private Property Rights: These are legally enforced rights an individual has to use, control, or transfer ownership of property. During the Enclosure Movement, these rights became more defined as lands were enclosed into private plots.