Villains of 18th-Century England

The 18th century is often called England's golden age of crime, fueled by London's rapid growth, widespread poverty, and lack of effective policing. Notorious figures include:

• Jack Sheppard: Master escape artist burglar, hanged 1724.
• Jonathan Wild: Criminal mastermind running thief networks, hanged 1725.
• Dick Turpin: Highwayman robbing wealthy travelers, hanged 1739.

These criminals terrorized society, making life perilous for many.