Crime And Punishment Flashcards
(13 cards)
Medieval law enforcement
Laws were created by monarchs and enforced by the courts. Laws were enforced locally through the Hue and Cry system (this is where local people would help enforce the law). Local areas may also have a town constable to help enforce the law.
Medieval crime
Theft was the most common crime. Murder occured but was rare. William the Conqueror created the Forest Laws. These laws were really harsh and punished people for hunting on royal claimed land.
Medieval punishment
The stocks and pillory were used for small crimes as a form of public humiliation. Execution and whipping was used for serious crimes. Prisons did not exist, however there were houses made to house those in debt or those awaiting trial.
Renaissance law enforcement
The courts still remained to help enforce the law along with town constables and the Hue and Cry system. A NEW position was created; this was called the Justice of the Peace. It was a title given to wealthy landowners to help enforce the law.
Renaissance crime
Theft was still the most common crime. Murder still occurred. However NEW crimes were introduced. The most famous being witchcraft.
Renaissance punishments
Stocks were still used for small crimes. Execution was still used for big crimes. However a NEW punishment was introduced, and these were called Houses of Correction. Beggars could be sent there and forced to do hard labour.
Industrial law enforcement
In 1829, Robert Peel created the very first police force in London. He did this due to the struggle of maintaining order in urban settings. The police were unwelcomed by the British at first however they were soon acceptedas a part of British life.
Industrial crime
Advances in science proved that witchcraft was not a crime. However NEW forms of crimes were seen. For example theft escalated to highway robbery, which was a very violent method of theft. Rich landowners also created NEW crimes to prevent poaching so that they could protect their land. Murder was still common.
Industrial punishments
From 1700-1820 execution was used for even the smallest of crimes. This was known as the bloody code. Prisons became much MORE common. ALSO, the UK began to deport people abroad for 7-14 years.
Modern Law Enforcement
The government creates the laws and the police force enforce them. However more specialised units of policing evolved, such as units to combat drugs and terrorism.
Modern Crime
Theft is still common but happens in NEW ways, for example, computer theft. In 2007, the government ruled new laws surrounding hate crimes. Murder is still common.
Modern punishment
The death penalty was abolished in 1965. Prisons are now the most common form of punishment. Fines, community service and electronic tagging are also used.
