Mendicidad

Abstract

The image contains a news story about the growing concern about begging in Bogotá, describing how the streets are full of beggars who resort to increasingly ingenious and extreme tactics to obtain alms. The lack of regulation by the police is criticized and it is pointed out that, in many cases, beggars are not really incapable of working, but have turned begging into a profession. In addition, cases of deception and fraud are mentioned, such as the repeated use of the same child corpse to inspire pity. It is highlighted how many people fake disabilities or illnesses to obtain alms. It is mentioned that, in private, these so-called beggars lead a healthy and carefree life. The author describes the situation as terrifying and regrets that Bogotá is the city most affected by this problem. Finally, the police are urged to take urgent measures to differentiate the real needy from the fakers and provide organized help to those who really require it. News published in El Correo Nacional on April 26, 1897.