Unexpected 'Killer' in 16th Century England: Drowning

In 16th century England, deaths by drowning were surprisingly common, representing the main 'killer' for ordinary people. According to historian Steven Gunn, approximately 40% of accidental deaths were due to drowning in rivers and canals.

Most drownings involved farmers, laborers, and servants who did not know how to swim and attempted to cool off after work. Women and girls were more at risk when collecting water, a daily task often performed in dangerous conditions.

While the elite could afford to avoid bathing and change shirts, the poor were forced to resort to rivers for cleaning, increasing the risk of drowning. These data highlight the harsh living conditions and gender inequalities in Tudor England.