The Digger Movement in the Days of the Commonwealth: As Revealed in the Writings of Gerrard Winstanley, the Digger, Mystic and Rationalist, Communist and Social Reformer

"The Digger Movement in the Days of the Commonwealth" by Lewis Henry Berens is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on the Digger Movement in England during the Commonwealth period, particularly highlighting the writings and contributions of Gerrard Winstanley, a key figure in the movement advocating for communal land use and social reforms. The book explores the broader social, political, and religious implications of the Digger ideals in the context of the revolutionary changes taking place in England at that time. The opening of this historical analysis examines the background leading to the Digger Movement, starting with the Protestant Reformation in both Germany and England. It addresses the social and economic unrest prevalent during the 15th and 16th centuries, highlighting the challenges faced by the peasantry and the rise of dissenting voices against the established church and monarchy. It then transitions into a discussion of Winstanley and his associates, illustrating their radical beliefs in communal living, equality, and the rejection of private property as they sought to build a just society based on mutual aid and shared resources. This foundational context sets the stage for understanding the significance of the Digger Movement within the wider historical narrative.