1. Economic Hardship and Poverty: Economic conditions during the mentioned period were challenging for many, with widespread poverty and limited opportunities for gainful employment. Some desperate individuals might have resorted to highway robbery as a means of acquiring wealth quickly.
2. Disruption of Society: The English Civil War and its aftermath had disrupted social stability and left many soldiers unemployed and facing difficulties reintegrating into civilian life. Some of these former soldiers may have turned to highway robbery as a way to support themselves.
3. Availability of Transportation: The development of improved roads and increased transportation made it easier for criminals to move quickly and cover long distances, allowing them to escape pursuing authorities after committing robberies.
4. Lax Law Enforcement: The law enforcement system was inadequate in many areas, with insufficient policing and the challenges of pursuing criminals across different jurisdictions or through sparsely populated regions. This weakness in the enforcement of the law provided opportunities for highwaymen to avoid capture.
5. Influence of Criminal Gangs: Organized criminal gangs and syndicates were not uncommon during that period, providing individuals with a network of support and mentorship in various illicit activities, including highway robbery.