A
footpad is an archaic term for a robber or
thief specialising in
pedestrian victims. The term was used widely from the 16th century until the 19th century, but gradually fell out of common use. A footpad was considered a low criminal, as opposed to the mounted
highwayman who in certain cases might gain fame as well as notoriety. Footpads operated during the
Elizabethan era and until the beginning of the 19th century.