Attitudes and Responses Toward the Poor Dbq

Attitudes And Responses Toward The Poor
During 1450 to 1700 half of Europe faced poverty. Eighty percent of a region faced possible starvation. Majority of the royal and wealthy people had negative attitudes toward the poor. Due to the fact that they believed the “poor” chose that lifestyle and did nothing to improve themselves. Several supporters of the “poor” had a positive attitude because they felt like helping those in need was the right thing to do. A lot of negative responses were taken against the poor. The royal, wealthy, particular town officials and citizens wanted those idleness people kicked out of the towns. While other town officials and supporters wanted the “poor” to receive a new opportunity and a place to stay.
To begin with, the first group included the documents written by members of a royal and or a wealthy family. This indicates that they do not have a very optimistic attitude toward the “poor”. A negative attitude toward the “poor” is clearly established by Emperor Charles V, who states idleness is evil. Emperor Charles V considers this idea because he is a religious man and God is not fond of those who are unemployed and lazy (Doc 4). This is additionally shown with Jean Maillefer, a wealthy merchant, who believes the “poor” do not want to leave the life they are accustomed to. Jean Maillefer expresses this because he has heard the “poor” talk. With that he is certain they live a free life with no worries about anything that could happen (Doc 11). A response toward the “poor” is brought up by Cardinal Richelieu. Cardinal Richelieu believes that certain “poor” people who can work should. His views this because he thinks idleness people are taking away from the real “poor” and that’s not correct (Doc 8). All of this clearly shows that the royal and wealthy did not want “poor” anywhere near them. They also thought the “poor” had an obligation of improving their lives.
Fallowing is Group 2, which consists of the town council and town...