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Crime and Punishment History: Easy Summary for Kids

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Evelyn Ridley

08/02/2023

History

Crime and punishment

Crime and Punishment History: Easy Summary for Kids

A comprehensive Crime and Punishment historical summary covering medieval law enforcement and justice systems from Saxon to Norman periods. The evolution of legal systems, punishments, and law enforcement methods reflects significant social and political changes throughout medieval England.

Key points:

  • Development from Saxon blood feuds to organized law enforcement
  • Introduction of Norman legal reforms and forest laws
  • Establishment of formal court systems and trial procedures
  • Significant influence of the Church on medieval justice
  • Evolution of punishment methods from wergild to more centralized systems
...

08/02/2023

2379

Crimes, Punishments & Law Enforcement Key Terms
Key term
Crimes against the
person
Crimes against
property
Crimes against
authority
Tithings

View

Change and Continuity in later medieval England c1200-c1500

This page details further developments in the English legal system during the later medieval period, showcasing the evolution of laws and punishments.

The abolition of the Murdrum fine around 1350 reflected the fading distinctions between Normans and Saxons over time. New laws were introduced to address emerging concerns:

Example: Heresy Laws were introduced from 1382 to deal with challenges to Church beliefs, demonstrating the continued influence of religion on the legal system.

The nature of law enforcement and punishment evolved significantly during this period. The page provides a comprehensive overview of various trial methods used in medieval England:

  • Trial by cold water
  • Trial by hot water
  • Trial by hot iron
  • Trial by consecrated bread
  • Trial by combat aNormanadditiona Norman addition

Highlight: In the trial by cold water, if the accused sank, they were considered innocent, while floating indicated guilt as it was believed God had rejected them.

These trial methods reflect the strong religious influence on the medieval justice system and the belief in divine judgment.

Later medieval period law enforcement c1200-1500

This section outlines key developments in law enforcement during the later medieval period, showcasing the gradual centralization and formalization of the English legal system.

Significant milestones include:

  1. 1166: Creation of the Assize of Clarendon, establishing royal judges to try serious crimes
  2. 1190: Appointment of Coroners to investigate suspicious deaths
  3. 1215: Abolition of trial by ordeal and introduction of trial by jury
  4. 1361: Introduction of Justices of the Peace as centrally appointed local judges

Highlight: The creation of the Assize of Clarendon in 1166 led to the establishment of courts and prisons for those awaiting trials, marking an extension of royal control over the legal system.

These developments demonstrate a clear trend towards a more centralized and standardized system of law enforcement and justice administration in medieval England.

Crimes, Punishments & Law Enforcement Key Terms
Key term
Crimes against the
person
Crimes against
property
Crimes against
authority
Tithings

View

Case study-Influence of the Church

This page examines the profound influence of the Church on various aspects of medieval life, particularly in relation to crime and punishment. The Church's role extended to shaping moral standards, defining crimes, and influencing legal procedures.

Highlight: The Christian religion was massively influential in all areas of life, including crime and punishment, reflecting the deep integration of religious beliefs in medieval society.

Key areas of Church influence included:

  1. Society: The Church's wealth and influence often led to tensions with the government, as exemplified by the conflict involving Thomas Becket and Church Courts.
  2. Crimes: Religious influence was evident in the definition of moral crimes such as drunkenness, adultery, and failure to attend church. Heresy became a significant crime, especially after 1382.
  3. Policing: The concept of sanctuary allowed criminals to seek temporary immunity from arrest in certain holy places, reflecting the Church's emphasis on mercy.
  4. Trials: Religious elements were incorporated into legal procedures, such as the use of oaths and trial by ordeal untilitsabolitionin1215until its abolition in 1215.
  5. Punishment: The Church promoted the concept of mercy in sentencing.

Example: The 'Benefit of Clergy' allowed those connected to the Church or capable of reciting the 'neck verse' to be tried in more lenient Church Courts, which excluded capital punishment.

This case study highlights the pervasive influence of the Church on the medieval crime and punishment system, demonstrating how religious beliefs and institutions shaped legal practices and societal norms throughout the period.

Crimes, Punishments & Law Enforcement Key Terms
Key term
Crimes against the
person
Crimes against
property
Crimes against
authority
Tithings

View

Page 4: Church Influence

This section examines the profound impact of the Church on medieval law and justice systems.

Highlight: The Church's influence extended to all aspects of medieval justice, from defining crimes to administering punishments.

Example: Religious crimes included heresy, drunkenness, and failure to attend church.

Definition: Sanctuary provided criminals 40 days of protection in holy places to decide between trial or exile.

The Church's role in medieval justice was comprehensive, affecting everything from trial procedures to punishment methods.

Crimes, Punishments & Law Enforcement Key Terms
Key term
Crimes against the
person
Crimes against
property
Crimes against
authority
Tithings

View

Page 5: Benefit of Clergy

The final section focuses on the special legal privileges granted to clergy members and their impact on medieval justice.

Definition: Benefit of Clergy allowed religious officials to be tried in more lenient Church courts rather than secular courts.

Highlight: Church courts notably excluded capital punishment, offering more merciful sentences.

Example: The 'neck verse' Psalm51Psalm 51 could be recited to claim clergy status and access Church courts.

This system demonstrated the significant power of the Church in medieval legal proceedings and its ability to influence justice outcomes.

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History

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8 Feb 2023

5 pages

Crime and Punishment History: Easy Summary for Kids

user profile picture

Evelyn Ridley

@ev_alice

A comprehensive Crime and Punishment historical summary covering medieval law enforcement and justice systems from Saxon to Norman periods. The evolution of legal systems, punishments, and law enforcement methods reflects significant social and political changes throughout medieval England.

Key points:... Show more

Crimes, Punishments & Law Enforcement Key Terms
Key term
Crimes against the
person
Crimes against
property
Crimes against
authority
Tithings

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Join milions of students

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Change and Continuity in later medieval England c1200-c1500

This page details further developments in the English legal system during the later medieval period, showcasing the evolution of laws and punishments.

The abolition of the Murdrum fine around 1350 reflected the fading distinctions between Normans and Saxons over time. New laws were introduced to address emerging concerns:

Example: Heresy Laws were introduced from 1382 to deal with challenges to Church beliefs, demonstrating the continued influence of religion on the legal system.

The nature of law enforcement and punishment evolved significantly during this period. The page provides a comprehensive overview of various trial methods used in medieval England:

  • Trial by cold water
  • Trial by hot water
  • Trial by hot iron
  • Trial by consecrated bread
  • Trial by combat aNormanadditiona Norman addition

Highlight: In the trial by cold water, if the accused sank, they were considered innocent, while floating indicated guilt as it was believed God had rejected them.

These trial methods reflect the strong religious influence on the medieval justice system and the belief in divine judgment.

Later medieval period law enforcement c1200-1500

This section outlines key developments in law enforcement during the later medieval period, showcasing the gradual centralization and formalization of the English legal system.

Significant milestones include:

  1. 1166: Creation of the Assize of Clarendon, establishing royal judges to try serious crimes
  2. 1190: Appointment of Coroners to investigate suspicious deaths
  3. 1215: Abolition of trial by ordeal and introduction of trial by jury
  4. 1361: Introduction of Justices of the Peace as centrally appointed local judges

Highlight: The creation of the Assize of Clarendon in 1166 led to the establishment of courts and prisons for those awaiting trials, marking an extension of royal control over the legal system.

These developments demonstrate a clear trend towards a more centralized and standardized system of law enforcement and justice administration in medieval England.

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Case study-Influence of the Church

This page examines the profound influence of the Church on various aspects of medieval life, particularly in relation to crime and punishment. The Church's role extended to shaping moral standards, defining crimes, and influencing legal procedures.

Highlight: The Christian religion was massively influential in all areas of life, including crime and punishment, reflecting the deep integration of religious beliefs in medieval society.

Key areas of Church influence included:

  1. Society: The Church's wealth and influence often led to tensions with the government, as exemplified by the conflict involving Thomas Becket and Church Courts.
  2. Crimes: Religious influence was evident in the definition of moral crimes such as drunkenness, adultery, and failure to attend church. Heresy became a significant crime, especially after 1382.
  3. Policing: The concept of sanctuary allowed criminals to seek temporary immunity from arrest in certain holy places, reflecting the Church's emphasis on mercy.
  4. Trials: Religious elements were incorporated into legal procedures, such as the use of oaths and trial by ordeal untilitsabolitionin1215until its abolition in 1215.
  5. Punishment: The Church promoted the concept of mercy in sentencing.

Example: The 'Benefit of Clergy' allowed those connected to the Church or capable of reciting the 'neck verse' to be tried in more lenient Church Courts, which excluded capital punishment.

This case study highlights the pervasive influence of the Church on the medieval crime and punishment system, demonstrating how religious beliefs and institutions shaped legal practices and societal norms throughout the period.

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Page 4: Church Influence

This section examines the profound impact of the Church on medieval law and justice systems.

Highlight: The Church's influence extended to all aspects of medieval justice, from defining crimes to administering punishments.

Example: Religious crimes included heresy, drunkenness, and failure to attend church.

Definition: Sanctuary provided criminals 40 days of protection in holy places to decide between trial or exile.

The Church's role in medieval justice was comprehensive, affecting everything from trial procedures to punishment methods.

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Page 5: Benefit of Clergy

The final section focuses on the special legal privileges granted to clergy members and their impact on medieval justice.

Definition: Benefit of Clergy allowed religious officials to be tried in more lenient Church courts rather than secular courts.

Highlight: Church courts notably excluded capital punishment, offering more merciful sentences.

Example: The 'neck verse' Psalm51Psalm 51 could be recited to claim clergy status and access Church courts.

This system demonstrated the significant power of the Church in medieval legal proceedings and its ability to influence justice outcomes.

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Crimes, Punishments & Law Enforcement Key Terms

This page provides essential definitions and concepts related to medieval laws and punishments. It covers various types of crimes, law enforcement methods, and key legal terms used in medieval England.

Definition: Crimes against the person included theft and murder, with a distinction made between serious and minor offenses.

Definition: Crimes against property encompassed activities like stealing crops and poaching, with poaching often viewed as a 'social crime'.

Vocabulary: Tithings were groups of 10 males aged 12 and over who shared collective responsibility for local law enforcement.

The page also introduces important legal concepts such as deterrence and retribution, as well as specific medieval practices like sanctuary and benefit of clergy.

Highlight: The "hue and cry" system involved local bystanders being summoned to assist in catching criminals, demonstrating community involvement in law enforcement.

The introduction of the parish constable in 1285 marked a significant development in local law enforcement structures.

Change and Continuity after the Norman Conquest c1066-c1200

This section explores the legal changes implemented following the Norman Conquest, highlighting both continuities and changes in the English legal system.

Example: The Forest Laws, introduced by William the Conqueror, banned hunting, collection of firewood, and grazing of animals in forests. Punishments for violating these laws were severe, including blinding and execution for repeat offenses.

The Murdrum Fine was a notable change, making Saxon communities collectively responsible for the murder of Normans. This served as a deterrent and placed responsibility for maintaining order on the entire community.

Highlight: William generally retained many of Edward the Confessor's laws to stress continuity and legitimize his succession.

The abolition of wergild and its replacement with payments to the King marked a significant shift in the purpose and beneficiary of legal compensation.

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Stefan S

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This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

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