Extortion Collection

A committee of the House of Commons at the Fleet Prison, 1729, illustration from Hutchinsons Story of the British
STC373546 A committee of the House of Commons at the Fleet Prison, 1729, illustration from Hutchinsons Story of the British Nation, c.1923 (colour litho) by Hogarth

Extorting tribute from the citizens (colour litho)
2817215 Extorting tribute from the citizens (colour litho) by Pyle, Howard (1853-1911) (after); Private Collection; (add.info.: Extorting tribute from the citizens)

The impeachment of Verres
908830 The impeachment of Verres by Tyler, A. (early 20th century); (add.info.: Hutchinsons History of the Nations published Hutchinson & Co circa 1920); English, out of copyright

Morning and in Low Spirits, a Lock Up scene in a Spunging House, Carey Street
3085951 Morning and in Low Spirits, a Lock Up scene in a Spunging House, Carey Street, a bit of Good Truth, from The English Spy, published London, 1824 (colour litho) by Cruikshank

First page of a broadside outlining the Act for Blocking up the Harbour of Boston
AQS256885 First page of a broadside outlining the Act for Blocking up the Harbour of Boston, 1774 (newsprint) by American School, (18th century); American Antiquarian Society, Worcester

Second page of a broadside outlining the Act for Blocking up the Harbour of Boston
AQS256886 Second page of a broadside outlining the Act for Blocking up the Harbour of Boston, 1774 (newsprint) by American School, (19th century); American Antiquarian Society, Worcester

Morning and in Low Spirits - a Scene in a Lock up House, from The English Spy
STC255136 Morning and in Low Spirits - a Scene in a Lock up House, from The English Spy, by Charles Molloy Westmacott (1788-1868) published London, 1825 (colour litho) by Cruikshank

Dauriac. Henri, Georges. 36 ans, ne a Memphis (USA). Agent d affaires. Extortion de fonds. 22/12/94. 1894

A True Account of the most Extraordinary Outrage on Mr Gee, 1834 (letterpress)
XJF701451 A True Account of the most Extraordinary Outrage on Mr Gee, 1834 (letterpress) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info)

The Charge of Extortion against Journalists, Mr. Lewis Cross-Examining Mr. Rogers
THE CHARGE OF EXTORTION AGAINST JOURNALISTS, MR. LEWIS CROSS-EXAMINING MR. ROGERS, THE SOLICITOR TO THE CRYSTAL REEF GOLD MINING COMPANY, 1889. Mr. Charles Woolfe, Mr. Claude Marks, Mr

JONATHAN WILD (c1682-1725). English thief and extortionist. Wild with a rich female client. Engraving by Howard Pyle, late 19th century

Jack Haugh Irish Beggar
Jack Haugh also known as Mill Cushin was an Irish Beggar and character in Dublin. Blind in one eye & with a bottle nose & permanent grin he daily tried the generosity of Dubliners

Solicitor cheating a couple
An elderly couple are cheated by a solicitor

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"Unveiling the Dark Art of Extortion: A Historical Perspective" In this captivating illustration by Kenny Meadows to Cymbeline, by William Shakespeare, an eagle clutching a bag of coins symbolizes the insidious practice of extortion. From ancient Rome demanding tribute money from the British king to modern-day scenarios, this age-old crime has plagued societies throughout history. Delving deeper into the shadows, Francisco Goya's Los caprichos etching "There is plenty to suck" exposes the greed and manipulation behind extortion. The image serves as a stark reminder that those who engage in such activities exploit others for personal gain without remorse. Moving forward in time, an intriguing lithograph depicts a committee of the House of Commons at Fleet Prison in 1729. This historical snapshot showcases how even those entrusted with upholding justice can succumb to corrupt practices like extorting individuals for their own benefit. The color litho artwork portraying citizens being coerced into paying tribute further emphasizes how power imbalances have been exploited throughout history. Whether it be through force or intimidation, these acts reveal humanity's darker side when driven by self-interest. William Hogarth's engravings shed light on infamous cases involving extortion and murder trials within parliamentary committees. These illustrations serve as cautionary tales highlighting how unchecked power can lead to heinous crimes against innocent victims. Taking us back even further, we encounter "The impeachment of Verres, " showcasing political corruption during ancient Roman times. This vivid depiction underscores how influential figures have long utilized their positions for personal enrichment at society's expense. Shifting gears slightly, scenes from spunging houses and lock-up houses provide glimpses into everyday life where individuals were subjected to various forms of coercion and blackmail. These images remind us that not all instances occur on grand scales but can also manifest within smaller communities or institutions. Finally, a broadside outlining the Act for Blocking up the Harbour of Boston reveals yet another facet of extortion: economic manipulation.