Curfew

Introduction to Curfew

Curfew, signal, usually the tolling of a bell at a fixed hour, at which time the inhabitants of a place were required to extinguish or cover their lights and fires and go to bed. It was an enforced regulation throughout Europe in the Middle Ages and originated as a precaution against fire. The curfew still survives in some parts of the United States as a means of signaling the lateness of the hour, a warning to minors to go indoors, or a police measure against further nocturnal entertainment. It is widely resorted to locally in times of civil strife and some emergencies. During World War II (1939-1945), a variety of night curfews were put into effect, both in the United States and Europe, as a means of conserving coal, oil, and other materials and as a precaution against air raids. In enemy-held territory, the curfew was used as a protection against sabotage and underground activities.” (1)

Resources

Notes and References

• Information about Curfew in the Encarta Online Encyclopedia

Guide to Curfew