Expression "the common people"

[Ladie]

Should I use a definite article when talking about common people in opposition to the gentry in situations like " The common people were fobidden to participate in certain sports"? Thank you. Ladie

[Jamie (K)]

Yes, you need the article in that usage.

[Arshad07]

The reason for the use of a definete article , is that use refer to " Common People" as a class.

[Arshad07]

The reason for the use of a definite article , is that you refer to " common people" as class.