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'There were more similarities than differences in law enforcement between the Medieval period (1250–1500) and the Early Modern period (1500–1750).' How far do you agree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer. - OCR Gateway - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 4
'There were more similarities than differences in law enforcement between the Medieval period (1250–1500) and the Early Modern period (1500–1750).' How far do you ag... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'There were more similarities than differences in law enforcement between the Medieval period (1250–1500) and the Early Modern period (1500–1750).' How far do you agree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer. - OCR Gateway - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Evaluate the Similarities in Law Enforcement
Answer
In both the Medieval and Early Modern periods, community involvement was crucial in law enforcement. Local communities often took it upon themselves to keep order. For example, during the Medieval period, the 'hue and cry' required villagers to pursue offenders. Similarly, in the Early Modern period, parish constables and watchmen had local responsibilities, showcasing the continuity in community-based law enforcement.
Step 2
Assess the Differences in Law Enforcement
Answer
There were notable advancements in the structure and function of law enforcement between these periods. In the Medieval period, law enforcement was informal and unregulated, relying heavily on community action. By contrast, the Early Modern period saw the establishment of more official roles and the beginnings of a formal police structure, emphasizing centralized authority. Additionally, methods of crime prevention evolved, with the introduction of more systematic legal frameworks.
Step 3
Conclusion: Similarities vs. Differences
Answer
While there are significant similarities in the reliance on community for maintaining law and order, the differences in the structure, formalization, and methodology of law enforcement in the Early Modern period indicate that there were considerable changes. Overall, one might argue that while the foundation of community engagement remained, the evolution towards a more organized and systematic approach suggests that there were indeed more differences than similarities.