Question

Explain briefly what the open field system meant to rural people in eighteenth- century England.
Look at the system from the point of view of:
1. A rich farmer
2. A labourer
3. A peasant woman

Answer 1

A rich farmer: The open field system was not beneficial for the rich farmer because he could not have exclusive control of the commons. He could not expand his area under cultivation beyond the strips which were allocated at the beginning of a year.

A labourer: This system was beneficial for a labourer because it provided additional sources of livelihood. The labourer could hunt rabbits and catch fish for getting some nutritious food. The commons provided some source of livelihood during off seasons when farm work was not available.

A peasant woman: For a peasant woman, the commons provided ample space for collecting firewood, fruits and berries.