Originally published in 1900, Leonard's study of the early history of English poor relief sheds light on an important aspect of English social care. The treatise details the various changes to the treatment of the poor from the Anglo-Saxon period until the Civil War, as well as comparing English approaches with contemporary practices in Scotland and France. The author draws heavily on municipal and state papers from the time, relevant extracts of which are reproduced in the appendices. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in the development of social work in Britain.