Highwaymen Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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highwaymen
[ˈhaɪweɪ.mən ]
Definition
historical term
Highwaymen were robbers who stole from travelers on public roads in England during the 17th and 18th centuries. They often used horses to make quick getaways after committing their crimes. Highwaymen are often romanticized in literature and folklore, depicted as dashing figures who would hold up carriages and demand money from passengers.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The notorious highwayman Dick Turpin became a legend.
- Many highwaymen would wear masks to conceal their identities.
- Travelers in the countryside feared encountering highwaymen.
- Some highwaymen operated in groups to increase their chances of success.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'highwayman' dates back to the 17th century in England, referring to outlaws who preyed on travelers.
- Many highwaymen were known for their daring escapes and would often operate in groups to increase their chances of success.
- Famous highwaymen like Dick Turpin became legendary, with tales of their exploits often romanticized in literature and folklore.
Literature
- Highwaymen frequently appear in classic literature, such as Alfred Noyes's poem 'The Highwayman', which tells a tragic love story.
- The romanticized image of highwaymen as charming rogues has influenced modern portrayals in films and novels.
- In Shakespeare's works, outlaws were often depicted as anti-heroes, reflecting societal views of law and order.
Pop Culture
- In popular culture, highwaymen have been represented in films like 'Robin Hood', highlighting their status as folk heroes.
- Video games and role-playing adventures often feature highwaymen as characters or challenges that players must confront.
- The image of the masked highwayman has become a trope in storytelling, symbolizing rebellion against authority.
Social Impact
- Highwaymen played a significant role in shaping the development of road safety measures and police forces during their peak.
- Their activities often caused fear among travelers, prompting changes in transportation and increased use of armed escorts.
- The legend of highwaymen often sparked public fascination, leading to a dual image of them as both criminals and romantic figures.
Law and Order
- Many highwaymen were ultimately captured and executed, leading to stricter laws and harsher penalties for robbery.
- The rise of highway robbery contributed to the establishment of early forms of policing and road patrols in England.
- The term 'highway robbery' continues to symbolize bold and audacious theft in modern language.
Origin of 'highwaymen'
The term 'highwayman' originated in the late 16th century and is derived from the combination of 'highway', meaning a main road, and 'man', referring to a male individual. These criminals emerged during a time when travel was becoming more common, but law enforcement was limited outside urban areas. Highwaymen typically targeted stagecoaches and wealthy travelers, taking advantage of the isolated routes of the countryside. The phenomenon of highway robbery peaked in the 18th century when such crimes became notorious, leading to an increase in public concern. Many highwaymen became infamous, and their exploits were celebrated in popular ballads and stories. Over time, the rise of effective policing and changes in transportation led to the decline of highwaymen as a societal issue.