ABRAHAM MEN Meaning and
Definition
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Abraham men were individuals who were deemed to be mentally ill or mentally disabled during the Tudor and Stuart periods in England. The term "Abraham men" referred to these individuals as beggars or wanderers who claimed to be descendants of Abraham, a biblical figure known for his hospitality and wandering nature. However, this claim of lineage was often considered a ruse or an act to manipulate others into providing them with charity or alms.
The Abraham men would often adopt peculiar clothing and behaviors to evoke sympathy from passersby, such as wearing patched or tattered garments, shamming disabilities, or exaggerating their mental instability. They would roam the streets, markets, or fairs seeking alms, food, or shelter. Abraham men were known for their tricks and deceptions, sometimes pretending to be possessed by evil spirits or performing bizarre acts to capture attention.
These individuals were considered to be a nuisance by the authorities of the time, as their behavior disrupted societal norms and often led to the spread of false rumors and superstitions. Consequently, legislation was passed to regulate and control the activities of Abraham men, with penalties imposed on individuals found guilty of impersonating or participating in such acts.
In summary, Abraham men were vagabonds or beggars who pretended to be mentally ill or disabled, claiming to be descendants of Abraham in order to beg for charity. They relied on their unusual appearance and behaviors to convince the public to offer them alms or support.
Common Misspellings for ABRAHAM MEN
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Etymology of ABRAHAM MEN
The term "Abraham men" originated in the 16th century and was primarily used in England during that time. It is believed to be derived from the biblical character Abraham, who was known for his hospitality and generosity. The term initially referred to a group of vagrants who would pretend to be former inmates of Bethlehem Hospital (also known as Bedlam), a psychiatric institution in London. These individuals would wander the streets wearing an imitation badge depicting Abraham sacrificing his son Isaac.
By posing as mentally ill or disabled, they sought sympathy and charity from the public. Their aim was to elicit money or food from kind-hearted individuals. These con artists used different tricks to gain sympathy, often pretending to be mute, deaf, or mentally impaired. Hence, the term "Abraham men" came to be associated with these fraudulent beggars who exploited people's sympathy.
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