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The English Heritage
The English heritage started when English settlers arrived and brought their laws, customs, and government ideas with them. These included things like trial by jury, common law, and elected leaders. The purpose was to create a fair system of rules and justice, which helped shape how American law and government work today. It established foundational practices for community-based policing. Link: https://historicengland.org.uk/advice/caring-for-heritage/heritage-crime/taking-action/ -
Law Enforcement in Colonial America
The purpose of this served to maintain order and protect property within the growing population. This served to address local disputes and enforce rules for the most part. This laid the foundation for the structured policing systems that would evolve in the United States. link: https://www.britannica.com/topic/police/Early-police-in-the-United-States -
The First Modern American Police
Boston created the first modern police force in the United States. It was made up of full-time, paid officers who worked to keep the city safe and organized. Included standardized attire and basic training for officers. The main purpose was to stop crime and keep law and order, especially in busy areas like the markets. Link: https://time.com/4779112/police-history-origins/ -
The “Political Era” in American Policing, 1830s–1900
This era was marked by strong ties between police and local politicians. Police officers were picked based on their political connections, and they served the interests of those in power. The purpose was to keep order in growing cities, but it often led to corruption and unfair treatment. This highlighted the need for police reform and professionalism. Link: https://baltimorepolicemuseum.com/en/history-of-police-in-the-us -
The Professional Era, 1900–1960
This purpose served on making police work more honest and fair. Most police departments started using training, uniforms, and rules to reduce political influence and corruption. The main purpose was to serve the public by fighting crime and keeping communities safe in a fair and professional way. Link: https://openwa.pressbooks.pub/crimjust1/chapter/wa6-4/ -
The Police Crises of the 1960s
This event occurred when many communities, especially African American neighborhoods, faced unfair treatment and violence from the police. This led to protests and a loss of trust between the public and law enforcement. The purpose of these events was to demand better police behavior and equal treatment for all people. Link: https://www.npr.org/sections/codeswitch/2014/07/18/330108773/new-yorks-night-of-birmingham-horror-sparked-a-summer-of-riots -
New Developments in Policing, 1970–Present
There have been new technologies like body cameras and computers that help police do their jobs better and more honest. Community policing also became more common, where officers work closely with people in the neighborhood to build trust. Link: https://interrogatingjustice.org/ending-mass-incarceration/body-cameras-community-policing/ -
The National Police Crisis, 2014–present
Several high-profile cases in 2014 where police used deadly force, especially against Black Americans. This caused large protests and calls for police reform. This is important because it brought attention to racism and how police should treat people in different communities. Video Link: https://nyti.ms/3gIhmhh -
The Future Era: Smart Policing
This era is crucial because it uses new technology to essentially stop crime before it happens. It helps police and communities work together better to keep everyone safe. This also makes sure police are fair and honest during their job. Link: https://www.theiacp.org/news/blog-post/sponsored-content-axon-ignites-an-intelligence-revolution-to-support-public-safety