Causes of Rebecca Riots

Specific Grievances 

Tithes

Welsh peasantry were forced to pay church rates and tithes to a church which they did not belong. Tithe CommutationAct 1836 farmers now often had to sell stock to raise money and often didn't get full value for what they sold. Paying 7% more for Anglican church 

Poor Law

Poor Law Amendment Act 1834 workhouse conditions deliberately harsh. The poor rate for whole country dropped but the act led to severe human suffering referred to the workhouses as 'Bastilles'.

Toll Gates

tangible objects which could be destroyed thereby providing emotional relief

The frequency of the toll- places like Swansea surrounded by tolls 

Thomas Bullin from England took over Whitland Turnpike Trust he put up toll prices and increased gates this was the final straw 

in Breconshire in which all Turnpike roads belonged to one trust no riots took place

Public Opinion 

They represented more organised discontent, they were evidently aware of injustices.

This came through the establishment of local newspapers, large number of friendly societies & efforts of movements like Chartism, the ACLL, anti-poor law agitation & above all non-conformity 

They were becoming better informed & acquainted with new ideas- the Rebecca Riots grew in this climate  

Economic Depression 

population growth= increased birth rate…