Abraham-men

Abraham-men

A depiction of Abraham-men in the 16th century

The term "Abraham-men" refers to a group of individuals who were known for their deceptive practices and fraudulent behavior during the 16th and 17th centuries in England. These individuals would often pretend to be former inmates of the infamous Bedlam Hospital, a mental institution in London, in order to gain sympathy and financial support from unsuspecting individuals.

Origins

The origins of the term "Abraham-men" can be traced back to the biblical story of Abraham and his willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac. These individuals would often claim to have been "mad" like Abraham, hence the name "Abraham-men." They would roam the streets, dressed in rags and chains, pretending to be mentally unstable.

Deceptive Practices

Abraham-men were skilled at manipulating people's emotions and exploiting their sympathy. They would often carry fake documents claiming their release from Bedlam Hospital, which they used to convince others of their supposed mental instability. These documents were often forged or obtained through illicit means.

Modus Operandi

Abraham-men would approach individuals on the streets, markets, or even in their homes, telling elaborate stories of their suffering and mistreatment in Bedlam Hospital. They would often exaggerate their conditions, claiming to have been subjected to cruel treatments and neglect. These stories were designed to evoke pity and compassion from their victims.

Financial Exploitation

Once they gained the sympathy of their victims, Abraham-men would ask for financial assistance. They would claim that the money would be used to improve their living conditions or seek medical treatment. In reality, the funds obtained were often used for personal gain or to support their fraudulent lifestyle.

Public Perception

The presence of Abraham-men in society created a sense of fear and distrust among the general population. People became wary of helping those who claimed to be mentally ill, as they were unsure of their authenticity. This skepticism led to a decline in public support for genuine individuals in need of assistance.

Crackdown and Decline

As the deceptive practices of Abraham-men became more widely known, authorities began to take action against them. Laws were enacted to prosecute those who engaged in fraudulent behavior. The introduction of stricter regulations and increased vigilance from the public led to a decline in the prevalence of Abraham-men over time.

Legacy

The term "Abraham-men" has since become synonymous with fraudsters and impostors. It serves as a reminder of the deceptive practices employed by individuals in the past to exploit the goodwill of others. The story of Abraham-men also highlights the importance of skepticism and critical thinking when faced with claims of distress or need.

See Also

• Bedlam Hospital
• Impostor syndrome
• Fraud