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Inequality In The 18th Century

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During the 18th century, men were seen as the superior gender in nearly every aspect of life, ensuing was a life full of inequality for women. Even the justice system was victim to this way of thinking, making it as corrupt as society itself. This was heavily present in trials that either involved both a man and a woman or sometimes just a man. It wouldn't help that the juries were only men, no women were allowed to be on juries. You can see this aspect of justice make an impact on some of these cases with the verdicts that they make. This idea of inequality was very clear in the case I researched involving William Abbot and Elizabeth Spark and the verdicts they both received. Inequality was a major issue in 18th century London, showing all of us just how different a society and its values were just a few …show more content…
The trial involving William Abbot and Elizabeth Spark is very significant in regards to my argument because it involves the injustice I am referring to. Both were involved in a pick-pocketing theft case and both were taken to trial. However, after the trials were given a verdict, only one of them were found to be Guilty. William Abbot was allowed to walk and Elizabeth Spark was given the death punishment. In the case description it clearly describes the actions of both Spark and Abbot and it says “but contrary to her[Spark] expectation, was seized by the Master of the House, upon which Abbot lying perdue, endeavoured to rescue her, and feel upon the said Nichols, who was then returned from the pursute (Old Bailey 1). This shows us that Abbot was clearly involved in the crime meaning he should be punished. However, he was sentenced to be Not Guilty,

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