NCJ Number
151854
Date Published
1994
Length
112 pages
Annotation
This textbook discusses changes in the types of crimes (crimes against persons, crimes against property, and challenges to authority) committed over the past five centuries in Britain, in theories of punishment, and in the types of punishment imposed.
Abstract
Between 1450 and 1950, crimes against authority included rebellion and treason, crimes of religion, witchcraft, and vagrancy, while property crimes generally took the form of theft and robbery, rural crimes, and smuggling. For the second period discussed, 1750-1900, the author examines the property crimes of industrialization and theft, and poaching, and crimes against authority including public order and riots, and conspiracy. Primary methods of punishment included capital punishment, imprisonment, and transportation. During this period, governments began to organize police forces to prevent crime and to apprehend criminals. For the 20th Century, this textbook discusses the property crimes of hooliganism and violence, burglary and joyriding, destruction and vandalism, and computer crimes. Challenges to authority have included active and passive protest, riots, and terrorism in Britain. Finally, the author explores changing attitudes toward punishment.