Did the British Government Pay for Clothing in 1757?
In 1757, the cost of clothing for the British military was considerable and for the lower classes, it could prove to be too expensive to purchase. In most cases, the British government provided clothing for its servicemen, but what was the situation in 1757? Was clothing provided by the government at that time?
Army Uniforms
For the British military, uniforms were compulsory in 1757. Officers were required to supply their own uniforms, but the cost was reimbursed by the government. Enlisted personnel were given coats and breeches in a range of colours, and later, they were given gaiters, caps and other garments as uniform requirements changed.
Lower Classes
There is less information available about the clothing of the lower classes in 1757, but there is evidence to suggest that some forms of government assistance were provided. For example, it is known that the government provided materials to poor families to use to make their own clothes. There were also clothes donations from wealthy benefactors.
Conclusion
At the time of 1757, the British government provided some degree of assistance with the cost of clothing for its military personnel, as well as providing materials, advice and donations to the lower classes. This form of welfare was relatively rare for the period, but it does suggest that the British government was willing to take action to ensure its citizens were clothed appropriately.
Overall, the British government in 1757 did provide some assistance in terms of clothing, either through reimbursement of uniforms to officers, or through donations and materials to the lower classes. This was a unique offering at the time, with the British government taking steps to ensure its citizens had appropriate clothing.