Why did the whitechapel murders attract so much attention in the late nineteenth century

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Why did the Whitechapel murders attract so much attention in 1888?

The Whitechapel murders attracted so much attention in the 1888, due to a variety of reasons, including the nature of crimes, location of murders, the role of the press and nature of victims. No one had ever heard or seen such violent and gruesome attacks so people wanted to know more. Mainly the middle class had to take an interest because of the 'threat of disorder and a possible revolt by the poor.' For this reason they wanted to see the murderer (Jack the Ripper) get caught as soon as possible for there benefits not the prostitutes. The location of the murders was a factor in why Jack the Ripper recieved so much attention. Whitechapel was in the East end, and there was an estimated 1200 prostitutes. The press over exaggerated on the description of the area and used the location to make Whitechapel and murders sound horrific and increase the amount of attention on the murders.

The press described how the 'Ripper' chose the London prostitues from Whitechapel, disembowelled and then left them to die. This imparticular frightened the reader enough to keep them interested. To do this they had to attract the readers this means describing and creating graphic detailed illustrations and descriptions. The Star August 31st 1888 wrote 'a woman with...her throat cut from ear to ear... the wound was about 2 inches wide and blood was flowing profusely...as the corpse lies in the mortuary it presents a ghastly sight.' The need for the papers to attract readers leads to sensationalism.

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The nature of the crimes was also a major factor in increasing attention; all five women were slashed from ear to ear. Three of the women had their skirts lifted up which suggests they were raped as well as murdered. All the bodies were found early morning laying on their backs. Every murder was horrific and gruesome, also most of the victims had their organs ripped out which suggests the murderer had some medical knowledge. The press described the victims in thorough detail , making the public aware and attracting greater attention.

Mary Jane Nicholls or 'Polly' was a ...

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