NCJ Number
106575
Editor(s)
K L Hall
Date Published
1987
Length
707 pages
Annotation
These 25 essays use concepts and methodologies from the social sciences to examine developments in crime, criminal law, and their analysis in the United States from the colonial period through the mid-20th century.
Abstract
Discussions of crime patterns focus on violence along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal in 1839; crime in Marion County, Ind.; from 1823-1850, and crime in 17th century Massachusetts. Loansharking and other activities prevalent in urban areas in the 19th and 20th centuries, are examined, as well as crime in North Carolina from 1663-1740. The development of law and criminal justice responses to criminality are discussed for the Michigan Territory and Wayne County, Mich., during the 18th and early 19th centuries, and in 18th century New York, Chicago, and Virginia. Legal responses to issues of morality in early America and the role of vigilantism are also considered. Data tables, figures, and footnotes.