crime and punishment

Assize of Clarendon

Introduced in 1166 by Henry II, establishing prisons and royal judges.

Abolition of Trial by Ordeal

A 1215 law that marked a shift towards more rational legal procedures.

First Witchcraft Act

Established in 1542, it made witchcraft a capital offense.

Vagrancy Act

A 1592 law that imposed harsh penalties on the homeless, reflecting societal fears of disorder.

Black Act

Enacted in 1723, it made poaching and other offenses capital crimes, expanding the 'Bloody Code.'

John Howard's Report

Published in 1777, it highlighted prison conditions and influenced future reforms.

Gaols Act

Initiated in 1823, it brought about regular inspections and payment for jailers in prisons.

Tolpuddle Martyrs

In 1834, six men were transported for forming a trade union, highlighting labor tensions.

Borstals

Institutions for young offenders introduced in 1902.

Mandatory Police Training

Established in 1947, it standardized training for all new police recruits.

Sexual Offences Act

A 1967 act that decriminalized homosexuality in private between consenting adults.

Complete Abolition of Death Penalty

In 1998, this removed capital punishment for all crimes.

Justices of the Peace

Local magistrates appointed in 1361 to maintain law and order, precursors to modern policing.

Matthew Hopkins' Witch Hunts

Actions of the 'Witchfinder General' from 1645 to 1647 that led to numerous executions.

Transportation to Australia

The practice from 1787 to 1868 of sending convicts to penal colonies as an alternative to capital punishment.

Elizabeth Fry's Prison Reforms

Advocacy from 1813 onwards for humane treatment of prisoners, leading to significant changes in prison conditions.

Introduction of Fingerprinting

Revolutionized forensic science and criminal investigations in Britain in 1901.