The Maiden Tribute of Modern Babylon

Stead 1881

The Maiden Tribute of Modern Babylon

The Maiden Tribute of Modern Babylon is a series of investigative articles written by William Thomas Stead, a prominent British journalist and editor. The articles were published in the Pall Mall Gazette in July 1885 and played a crucial role in raising public awareness about the issue of child prostitution in Victorian London.

Background

During the late 19th century, child prostitution was a significant social problem in London. The age of consent was only 13, and there were widespread reports of young girls being exploited and sold into prostitution. William Thomas Stead, who was the editor of the Pall Mall Gazette, decided to investigate the issue and bring it to the public's attention.

Investigation

Stead conducted a daring undercover investigation, during which he posed as a customer seeking to purchase a young girl. He collaborated with Rebecca Jarrett, a former prostitute and brothel keeper, who helped him navigate the underworld of child prostitution. Stead's investigation revealed the ease with which young girls could be bought and sold, and he documented his findings in a series of articles.

Publication

The first article in the series, titled "The Maiden Tribute of Modern Babylon," was published on July 6, 1885. The articles were sensational and graphic, detailing the horrors of child prostitution and the complicity of the authorities. The series caused a public outcry and led to widespread debate about the issue.

Impact

The publication of "The Maiden Tribute of Modern Babylon" had a significant impact on public opinion and led to legislative change. The articles were instrumental in the passage of the Criminal Law Amendment Act 1885, which raised the age of consent from 13 to 16 and introduced harsher penalties for those involved in child prostitution.

Legacy

Stead's work is considered a landmark in investigative journalism and had a lasting impact on social reform in Britain. The series highlighted the power of the press to effect change and brought attention to the plight of vulnerable children.

See also

• William Thomas Stead
• Pall Mall Gazette
• Criminal Law Amendment Act 1885
• Victorian era
• Child prostitution