Overview

This book marks the anniversary of one of the most colourful episodes in modern British social history. The year 1839 witnessed the first appearance in south-west Wales of Rebecca, the mythical heroine. David Jones reveals, with a wealth of documentary and statistical evidence, that the riots she inspired were more widespread and serious than was thought. Even Queen Victoria felt compelled to demand urgent action against them. The response to the disturbances, and to the meetings which accompanied them, was of the utmost importance in the history of modern Wales. This book sets the riots in the wider context of a changing rural society. It is a study of Rebecca's children, the peasantry of Wales. The author examines their economy, poverty, family life, popular culture, social attitudes, crime and politics. Much of this material, especially on deviancy, is published for the first time, and it illustrates how Rebeccaism grew naturally out of a fertile soil. Even the extensive and sustained presence of soldiers and professional policemen could not completely eradicate the phenomenon. Historians are left to ponder its significance, both for 19th century society and for their own subject. David Jones is the author of ""The last rising - the Newport insurrection of 1839"".

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9780198200994

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Reviews

<br> Essential reading not only for Welsh and British social hsitory but also as a model investigation of peasant society in political and economic transition. --Journal of Social History<br> The issues discussed often transcend the peculiarities of the Welsh and their experiences, while at the same time the reader will be treated to what must be regarded as the best account of both Rebecca's children and Rebecca herself. --American Historical Review<br> Makes a splendid contribution of fresh facts and insights. --The Guardian<br> A fascinating volume, beautifully written. --Leslie Anderson, University of Colorado, Boulder<br> Exceptionally rich in vivid detail and is well written. --Choice<br>

Essential reading not only for Welsh and British social hsitory but also as a model investigation of peasant society in political and economic transition. --Journal of Social History<br> The issues discussed often transcend the peculiarities of the Welsh and their experiences, while at the same time the reader will be treated to what must be regarded as the best account of both Rebecca's children and Rebecca herself. --American Historical Review<br> Makes a splendid contribution of fresh facts and insights. --The Guardian<br> A fascinating volume, beautifully written. --Leslie Anderson, University of Colorado, Boulder<br> Exceptionally rich in vivid detail and is well written. --Choice<br>

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