Research at the Sabadell Historical Archive has uncovered 1,535 judicial cases spanning just forty years. The data shows that violence was a daily occurrence affecting all social classes. Common crimes included stabbings over minor disputes, such as the 1604 case of Joan Marc, who attacked a neighbor for stealing two walnuts.
“"We must imagine the royal roads like modern train lines, constant transit points where bandits robbed wagons."
The study emphasizes that honor was paramount, and insults often led to physical altercations. Furthermore, the society of the time practiced severe structural violence against women. Economic crisis and climate instability created an explosive environment, often resulting in public executions at the Plaça Major.
