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The Police in America, 4/e
Samuel Walker, University of Nebraska
Charles M. Katz, Arizona State University-West

Foundations
The History of the American Police

Chapter Overview

This chapter traces the history of the American police from its roots in England and colonial America to modern-day policing. Since its inception in the United States, American policing has undergone significant changes. Examining its history helps us understand what changes have occurred as well as the social and political forces that have affected this change.

This chapter also highlights the various reforms that have been proposed in police history. These reforms have appeared on various fronts including the professionalization movement, which sought to enact changes such as eliminating political influence from policing and defining policing as a profession. Discussions on more current issues such as Supreme Court decisions, civil rights, and racial and ethnic tensions complete the chapter.