Part 2/11:

Historically, poverty was often viewed as an inevitable aspect of life. The New Testament even notes that “the poor will always be with us.” For centuries, this was not seen as a failure or a moral failing, but rather as a condition to be addressed with direct charity from individuals to those in need. However, during the early modern period, a shift began to occur. The poor were increasingly seen as morally inferior, lazy, or dependent, emphasizing the need for them to prove their deservingness for aid.