Define: Crimping

In the past, individuals were deceived and confined through crimping to compel them to enlist in the military. This practice is comparable to impressment, another method of coercing individuals into military service.

Crimping, a historical offence, involved tricking and trapping individuals into joining the military against their will. For instance, during the 18th and 19th centuries, crimping was prevalent in ports such as London and Liverpool. Unscrupulous individuals, known as “crimps,” would entice unsuspecting men with offers of employment or alcohol, only to drug them and sell them to naval recruiters. These victims would then be compelled to serve in the navy, often enduring years of arduous service. This example demonstrates how crimping was employed to deceive and ensnare individuals into military duty. The crimps employed false promises and coercion to coerce people into serving in the navy, a perilous and demanding occupation. Although this practice was eventually outlawed, it remained a widespread issue for many years.

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This glossary post was last updated: 26th April 2024.