Explain one way in which the role of local communities in law enforcement in the medieval period was similar to the role of local communities in law enforcement in the modern period. - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 1

In both the medieval and modern periods, local communities played a crucial role in law enforcement by taking responsibility for reporting crimes.

During the medieval period, community members were expected to report crimes to the authorities, operating under a system where individuals acted as the first line of defense against criminal activity. If a crime occurred, it was the community's duty to inform local leaders or law enforcement officers. This collective responsibility helped maintain order and safety.

Similarly, in modern times, local communities are still integral to law enforcement through practices such as neighborhood watch schemes. These programs encourage residents to work together to observe and report suspicious activities to the authorities. This proactive involvement helps deter crime and fosters a sense of community responsibility.

Thus, both periods highlight the importance of local communities in policing, emphasizing their role in identifying and reporting criminal behavior as a means of upholding social order.