The English Poor Law, 1531-1782 (New Studies in Economic and Social History)
"Paul Slack's The English Poor Law, 1531-1782 is a well-informed and concise survey of recent scholarly research about social welfare legislation in early modern England."    Elisabeth Cawthon, H-Net Reviews"...this is an excellent book, especially for young scholars wishing to research the Old Poor Law.  It provides a brief, yet thorough historical account, helpful bibliographic tools, and even a checklist of relevant statutes."   David McCarter, Sixteenth Century Journal