Historian A: John Smith – Economic Perspective

"John Smith argues that highway robbery was primarily driven by economic factors. He suggests that the increase in thefts was a response to economic hardship faced by the lower classes during the industrial period. Smith emphasizes that robberies were often committed out of necessity, as impoverished individuals sought to survive in a rapidly changing economy. He highlights the rise of highway robbery as a symptom of wider economic inequality and lack of legal opportunities for the poor. Smith's view focuses on the economic struggles that pushed many into criminal activity."

Historian B: Emily Johnson – Social Perspective

"Emily Johnson contends that highway robbery was rooted in social issues such as lawlessness and the breakdown of community order. She argues that the period saw a decline in social cohesion, which led to increased violence and crime on the roads. Johnson emphasizes that highway robbers often operated in organized gangs, exploiting the chaos of the period. Her perspective suggests that social instability, rather than economic hardship alone, was the main cause of highway robberies, reflecting wider societal decline during industrialization."