Victorian Crime
During the Victorian era (1837-1901), crime rates in England rose significantly due to rapid urbanization and social changes. The growing population in cities like London led to increased poverty and unemployment, contributing to various crimes, including theft and violent offenses. The period also saw the emergence of organized crime and the infamous Jack the Ripper murders, which captured public attention and highlighted the dangers of urban life.
Law enforcement evolved during this time, with the establishment of the Metropolitan Police Service in 1829, aimed at maintaining order and reducing crime. Advances in forensic science, such as fingerprinting, began to emerge, helping to solve cases more effectively. The Victorian era's fascination with crime and punishment also influenced literature, inspiring works by authors like Charles Dickens and Arthur Conan Doyle.