The word “police” and its history are an interesting story that spans many cultures, languages, and systems of government. The police as we know it today is not just a law and order maintaining institution. Rather, it is the result of a long process of history and development. Let us know how the word police originated and how it became popular all over the world.
Where did the word police come from?
According to Encyclopedia Britannica and the Oxford English Dictionary, the word “police” is originally derived from the Latin word “politia”, meaning “political order” or “administration of the state”. The word was derived from “politēs” (denoting a citizen or member of the city). Later this word was referred to as “police” in French and then began to be used in English as well.
How was the police system created?
The modern form of police systems developed during the Medieval and Renaissance periods. In the early days, the responsibility of maintaining law and order rested with the royal military forces and the feudal administration. But when cities expanded and civil society developed, the existence of police forces also became necessary. Even the concept of policing already existed in ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia and Greece. Their job was to look after the security of the state and its people.
However, as cities grew in size and the number of people increased in the 16th and 17th centuries, police units such as “watchmen” and “constables” were developed in England to maintain law and order. Their job was to protect the city at night and prevent crime from increasing. In France, the police was formally established during the reign of Louis XIV.
Where did today’s police come from?
Many historians have different opinions regarding this. However, most people believe that the modern police force originated in the 18th and 19th centuries. In fact, during this period, due to industrial revolution and urbanization in Europe, crimes also increased, due to which the need for an organized police system was felt in the society. In view of this, “London Metropolitan Police” was established in 1829. It is said that today’s police system is inspired by this.