Understanding the Bloody Code in Early Modern Crime
About This Worksheet
This worksheet explores the Bloody Code, a set of harsh laws in early modern England that prescribed death for many crimes. Students will read sources and historian views to understand its impact and significance.
Topics covered:
Worksheet Preview
Full preview • 8 questions
Understanding the Bloody Code in Early Modern Crime
Untitled Worksheet
Introduction to the Bloody Code
The Bloody Code was a set of harsh laws introduced in England during the early modern period. It made many crimes punishable by death, including theft, sheep stealing, and even minor offenses. The laws aimed to deter crime but also reflected society's strict attitudes towards law and order at the time.
Source A: Excerpt from a legal document, 1690
'All persons convicted of stealing goods valued at over a shilling shall be deemed guilty of felony and punished by death.'
Historian View:
'The Bloody Code increased executions dramatically, often for crimes that today would be considered minor. It was rooted in the desire to protect property and maintain social order.'
Quick Actions
What is Remix?
Create a new worksheet based on this one. Change the grade level, topic, number of questions, or difficulty - then generate a fresh version.
- • Change grade level (Grade 6 → Grade 7)
- • Swap topics (Harry Potter → Macbeth)
- • Add more questions (10 → 15)
- • Adjust difficulty
Details
- Created
- 1/1/2026
- Updated
- 1/1/2026
- Type
- worksheet