Chapter 6: Early American Policing
OVERVIEW
In the tapestry of American history, policing is a dynamic thread woven into the fabric of society. This crucial element of the nation’s criminal justice apparatus has undergone several major transformations since its inception. The story of American law enforcement is a narrative of adaptations to societal changes, emerging challenges, and a continuous quest for balance between maintaining social order and protecting individual rights.
As we delve into this chapter, we embark on a journey through time, beginning with the early days of the American colonies when informal systems of community watch and constables operated as rudimentary forms of policing. Then we will proceed to explorations concerning the influence of societal forces and English common law on the early development and practices of formalized police departments in the 19th century. Next, we proceed to an overview of three subsequent policing eras during the 20th century, each characterized by substantial transitions to law enforcement strategy and notable modifications of approach.
This chapter aims to unravel the chronological narrative of policing in the U.S. by delving into the historical context that prompted strategic change and adaptive strategies, while also foreshadowing the ongoing challenges and debates that continue to shape the role of law enforcement in contemporary American society. By navigating the historical landscape of policing in the U.S., you will gain valuable insights into the intricate interplay between societal changes and the evolution of law enforcement institutions. As we commence on this journey through time, it is crucial to critically examine the historical context and challenges that have shaped the policing landscape in order to foster a deeper, enriched understanding of modern American law enforcement.
Objectives
- Examine the primary factors that propelled change in policing styles during each policing era.
- Identify and differentiate the roles and expectations of police officers throughout the three major policing eras.
- Examine cultural perceptions of police departments and analyze how these perceptions influenced changes in policing structure and approach.
- Analyze adaptive policing strategies that emerged as a specific result of dynamic societal forces and challenges.
- Describe the various policing styles used by law enforcement agencies and how this negatively affected various minority and ethnic groups.
Key Terms
Beat
Bobbies
Broken Window Theory
Community Policing
CompStat
Corruption
Exclusionary Rule
Hot Spots
Hue and Cry
Inequality
Keystone Cops
Law Enforcement Assistance Administration
Night Watch
Oppressive Systems
Patronage
Police Brutality
Popular Punitivism
Problem-Oriented Policing
Protests
Punitive
Racism
Rebellion
Riots
Slave Patrol
Social Injustice
Subpoenas
Thief-Taker Rewards
Uniform Crime Report
Vice Crimes
Wickersham Commission
Xenophobia
Zero-tolerance Policing
Attributions
- Chapter opening image: Motorcycle police squad outside station, Seattle, October 22, 1914 (MOHAI 10118) by Museum of History and Industry in the Public Domain; This work is in the public domain in the United States because it was published (or registered with the U.S. Copyright Office) before January 1, 1929.
.jpg){kind=link}