Describe law and order in London in the late nineteenth century.
Many substantial developments and improvements in connection to law and order were introduced throughout London, during the late 19th century. The multiple changes resulted in an increase in organisation and a much more effective and efficient law system. Numerous factors including the development and expansion of the police force, the reinforcement of the legal system, the rehabitaton of criminals and other numerous factors, all contributed to this major change.
Although there was a variation of crimes committed in London at this time, 75% of recorded crime throughout London in the 19th century was petty theft. Alternatively, only 10% of recorded crimes were actually violent. During this time, middle-class Londoners were encouraged to believe that violent crimes and murder was on the increase, however, this was not necessarily true, as the rapid improvements in communication and transport, created a new development of national newspapers. Consequently, serious crimes could easily be reported all over the country.
Although an excessive amount of crimes were committed on a daily basis throughout London, the majority were only small and not very serious matters. Pickpockets were very conventional, they mainly stole purses and pocket-handkerchiefs and the overcrowded streets in Whitechapel, provided significant advantages and opportunities for these types of criminals. Rookeries were also increasingly popular; they were homes to organised gangs of pickpockets. .
Furthermore, between 1800 and 1850, there were many riots and protest movements in Britain. This public unrest was caused by many of the social and economic changes, which followed the Industrial Revolution. .
The expansion of the police force was also a major contributor to law and order during this period. As Britain's population gradually increased during the 19th century, so did the number of crimes that were committed.