Brigands

Brigands are members of a band that uses violent methods to steal from and attack people in a forest, mountains, or other secluded area. They are typically seen as outlaws and operate outside the law, relying on ambush, intimidation, and often brutality to achieve their goals. Their actions cause societal instability, fear, and economic disruption. Historical accounts frequently depict brigands as romantic figures of rebellion, yet their primary intent is always self-enrichment through illegal means, making them a threat to public safety and order. They are often organized and have an intricate network for storing or selling the items they steal.

Brigands meaning with examples

• The travelers, warned of brigands lurking in the mountain passes, decided to take a longer but safer route. They knew the brigands preyed on unsuspecting merchants, and any confrontation could lead to deadly consequences. The risk of encountering these criminals overshadowed their desire to get to their destination sooner.
• The villagers lived in constant fear of the brigands, whose raids became increasingly frequent and brutal. They had to protect their homes and loved ones from the lawless bandits. The local militia had been ineffective in stopping the brigands, so they had to take their own action.
• Historical novels often romanticize brigands as Robin Hood-like figures, taking from the rich to give to the poor. While entertaining in fiction, the reality of brigands' actions was one of exploitation and terror. Their victims suffered the consequences of their greed, and little of what they stole was distributed for good.
• In the lawless frontier, brigands and other gangs were a common threat, preying on settlers and travelers alike. The establishment of law enforcement was slow and they were frequently forced to fend for themselves. Vigilantism became rampant in an environment of crime.
• The discovery of a hidden cache of stolen goods revealed the brigands' intricate network of accomplices and informers. They were not just a small band of criminals, but an entire organized crime gang. Evidence of their crimes showed a large number of robberies and abductions.