Source A: The Forest Laws and Their Impact

"The Forest Laws were a series of regulations introduced by the monarch to control the royal forests, which covered large areas of land. These laws made it illegal for commoners to hunt or gather resources within the forests without royal permission. Enforcing these laws was difficult, as they were often used to serve the interests of the nobility and the crown, rather than the common people. Many villagers found themselves accused of breaking these laws, sometimes unfairly, and faced harsh punishments such as fines, imprisonment, or even death. The laws aimed to preserve game animals for royal hunting and to protect the forests from overuse. However, they also caused resentment among the populace, who relied on the forests for their livelihood. Over time, the enforcement of Forest Laws contributed to tensions between the crown and local communities, especially during periods of political unrest.

Provenance: William the Conqueror, 1086, royal decree (Domesday Book excerpt)