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26 May 2023
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History of Crime and Punishment in England Timeline for GCSE - Early Modern Period and Edexcel Notes
Lillie-Mae Downing
@lilliemaedowning_qcfp
Early Modern Period (1500-1700)
The Early Modern period in England saw both continuity and change in the history of crime and punishment. This era, crucial for understanding crime and punishment History GCSE Edexcel, witnessed the emergence of new crimes and enforcement methods.
Continuity in crimes included: • Murder • Petty theft • Treason
New crimes emerged, reflecting the changing social and political landscape:
- Heresy - introduced under Henry VIII as religious views shifted
- Vagabondage - crimes committed by the homeless and unemployed
Example: The Gunpowder Plot of 1605 exemplified treason in this period, leading to harsher laws against Catholics.
Law enforcement evolved with the introduction of watchmen to patrol streets and town constables to handle serious crimes. The witch hunts of 1645-47, led by Matthew Hopkins, the "Witchfinder General," marked a dark chapter in English history.
Quote: "1645-47 - 250 accused of witchcraft in East Anglia"
Punishments continued to include fines, stocks, and corporal punishment, but new methods were introduced: • Carting - parading vagrants through streets for humiliation • Transportation - sending criminals overseas to prison camps • Houses of correction - prison-like facilities for repeat offenders
Highlight: The Bloody Code of 1688 significantly increased the number of crimes punishable by death.
This period set the stage for further developments in crime and punishment, reflecting the changing social, religious, and political landscape of England.
18th and 19th Centuries (1700-1900)
The 18th and 19th centuries marked significant changes in the history of crime and punishment in England, influenced by the Industrial Revolution and rapid urbanization. This period is crucial for students studying Crime and punishment History GCSE Edexcel.
Crime evolved with societal changes: • Highway robbery increased due to improved roads and transportation • Witchcraft accusations declined, with the Witchcraft Act repealed in 1736 • The Black Act of 1723 made poaching punishable by death
Example: The Tolpuddle Martyrs case of 1833 highlighted new labor-related crimes, where agricultural laborers were sentenced to transportation for forming a union.
Law enforcement underwent major reforms:
- Bow Street Runners established in 1748 as an early police force
- Metropolitan Police introduced in 1829 by Robert Peel, ending the watchmen system
Highlight: Robert Peel, as Home Secretary, created the Metropolitan Police in 1824, establishing modern policing principles.
Punishment philosophies shifted towards rehabilitation and reform: • The Bloody Code was gradually dismantled, limiting capital punishment • Public executions ended in 1868, viewed as entertainment rather than deterrent • Transportation to colonies ceased in 1868 • Prisons became the primary form of punishment
Vocabulary: Rehabilitation - The focus on reforming criminals rather than solely punishing them.
Prison reforms, championed by Elizabeth Fry and John Howard, led to improvements: • The 1823 Gaols Act mandated proper food and paid warders • Pentonville Prison exemplified new reform-focused designs
This period marked a significant shift from harsh, public punishments to a more systematic approach to law enforcement and rehabilitation, setting the foundation for modern criminal justice systems.
Industrial Revolution Period (1700-1900)
This era marked significant changes in Crime and punishment History GCSE content, influenced by rapid urbanization and industrial development.
Quote: "The Black Act of 1723 made hunting punishable by death."
Highlight: The establishment of the Metropolitan Police by Robert Peel in 1824 revolutionized law enforcement.
Example: The Tolpuddle Martyrs case of 1833 highlighted the persecution of early labor unions.
Definition: Bow Street Runners, established in 1748, were early professional law enforcement officers.
Anglo-Saxon and Norman Period (1000-1500)
The Anglo-Saxon and Norman periods marked significant changes in the history of crime and punishment in England. This era saw the introduction of community-based law enforcement and the evolution of the justice system under William I.
Crime categories included offenses against the person, property, and authority. Law enforcement relied heavily on local communities, with tithings responsible for preventing crime. The hue and cry system involved community members helping to catch criminals.
Vocabulary: Tithing - A group of men in a community responsible for helping prevent crime.
William I introduced several changes to law enforcement after 1066:
- Coroners were appointed to determine causes of death.
- Justices of the peace maintained law and order in communities.
- Parish constables volunteered to enforce laws.
Highlight: The Norman Conquest brought new crimes, such as the murder of Norman soldiers and poaching in royal forests.
Punishments during this period were often severe, including capital and corporal punishments. The use of stocks for public humiliation was common. William I ended the wergild system, where fines were paid to victims or their families, and introduced the murdrum fine for communities where Norman soldiers were killed.
Definition: Wergild - A fine paid to the victim or victim's family, depending on social status.
This period laid the foundation for many aspects of the English legal system that would continue to evolve in later centuries.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
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
Android user
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
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
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
Android user
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
Paul T
iOS user
History of Crime and Punishment in England Timeline for GCSE - Early Modern Period and Edexcel Notes
Lillie-Mae Downing
@lilliemaedowning_qcfp
The evolution of crime and punishment in England spans centuries of significant changes in law enforcement and judicial practices. This comprehensive History of crime and punishment in england timeline showcases the transformation from community-based justice to organized policing systems.
Key... Show more
Early Modern Period (1500-1700)
The Early Modern period in England saw both continuity and change in the history of crime and punishment. This era, crucial for understanding crime and punishment History GCSE Edexcel, witnessed the emergence of new crimes and enforcement methods.
Continuity in crimes included: • Murder • Petty theft • Treason
New crimes emerged, reflecting the changing social and political landscape:
- Heresy - introduced under Henry VIII as religious views shifted
- Vagabondage - crimes committed by the homeless and unemployed
Example: The Gunpowder Plot of 1605 exemplified treason in this period, leading to harsher laws against Catholics.
Law enforcement evolved with the introduction of watchmen to patrol streets and town constables to handle serious crimes. The witch hunts of 1645-47, led by Matthew Hopkins, the "Witchfinder General," marked a dark chapter in English history.
Quote: "1645-47 - 250 accused of witchcraft in East Anglia"
Punishments continued to include fines, stocks, and corporal punishment, but new methods were introduced: • Carting - parading vagrants through streets for humiliation • Transportation - sending criminals overseas to prison camps • Houses of correction - prison-like facilities for repeat offenders
Highlight: The Bloody Code of 1688 significantly increased the number of crimes punishable by death.
This period set the stage for further developments in crime and punishment, reflecting the changing social, religious, and political landscape of England.
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Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
18th and 19th Centuries (1700-1900)
The 18th and 19th centuries marked significant changes in the history of crime and punishment in England, influenced by the Industrial Revolution and rapid urbanization. This period is crucial for students studying Crime and punishment History GCSE Edexcel.
Crime evolved with societal changes: • Highway robbery increased due to improved roads and transportation • Witchcraft accusations declined, with the Witchcraft Act repealed in 1736 • The Black Act of 1723 made poaching punishable by death
Example: The Tolpuddle Martyrs case of 1833 highlighted new labor-related crimes, where agricultural laborers were sentenced to transportation for forming a union.
Law enforcement underwent major reforms:
- Bow Street Runners established in 1748 as an early police force
- Metropolitan Police introduced in 1829 by Robert Peel, ending the watchmen system
Highlight: Robert Peel, as Home Secretary, created the Metropolitan Police in 1824, establishing modern policing principles.
Punishment philosophies shifted towards rehabilitation and reform: • The Bloody Code was gradually dismantled, limiting capital punishment • Public executions ended in 1868, viewed as entertainment rather than deterrent • Transportation to colonies ceased in 1868 • Prisons became the primary form of punishment
Vocabulary: Rehabilitation - The focus on reforming criminals rather than solely punishing them.
Prison reforms, championed by Elizabeth Fry and John Howard, led to improvements: • The 1823 Gaols Act mandated proper food and paid warders • Pentonville Prison exemplified new reform-focused designs
This period marked a significant shift from harsh, public punishments to a more systematic approach to law enforcement and rehabilitation, setting the foundation for modern criminal justice systems.
Industrial Revolution Period (1700-1900)
This era marked significant changes in Crime and punishment History GCSE content, influenced by rapid urbanization and industrial development.
Quote: "The Black Act of 1723 made hunting punishable by death."
Highlight: The establishment of the Metropolitan Police by Robert Peel in 1824 revolutionized law enforcement.
Example: The Tolpuddle Martyrs case of 1833 highlighted the persecution of early labor unions.
Definition: Bow Street Runners, established in 1748, were early professional law enforcement officers.
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
Anglo-Saxon and Norman Period (1000-1500)
The Anglo-Saxon and Norman periods marked significant changes in the history of crime and punishment in England. This era saw the introduction of community-based law enforcement and the evolution of the justice system under William I.
Crime categories included offenses against the person, property, and authority. Law enforcement relied heavily on local communities, with tithings responsible for preventing crime. The hue and cry system involved community members helping to catch criminals.
Vocabulary: Tithing - A group of men in a community responsible for helping prevent crime.
William I introduced several changes to law enforcement after 1066:
- Coroners were appointed to determine causes of death.
- Justices of the peace maintained law and order in communities.
- Parish constables volunteered to enforce laws.
Highlight: The Norman Conquest brought new crimes, such as the murder of Norman soldiers and poaching in royal forests.
Punishments during this period were often severe, including capital and corporal punishments. The use of stocks for public humiliation was common. William I ended the wergild system, where fines were paid to victims or their families, and introduced the murdrum fine for communities where Norman soldiers were killed.
Definition: Wergild - A fine paid to the victim or victim's family, depending on social status.
This period laid the foundation for many aspects of the English legal system that would continue to evolve in later centuries.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
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
Android user
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
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
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
Android user
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
Paul T
iOS user