Sir Robert Peel Paper

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Sir Robert Peel CJA/214 November 28, 2011 Mark Logan Sir Robert Peel Sir Robert Peel (1788-1850) was an English statesman who served as prime minister from 1834-1835 and from 1841-1846. He played an important role in modernizing the British government’s social and economic policies and sponsored the repeal of the Corn Laws in 1846. (Gale, 2004, pg.181) Sir Robert Peel was ahead of his time with his advanced ways of thinking and reforming of British laws, prisons, police and policies, both fiscal and economic. With his advanced approach to social and political problems and by making the government a positive instrument in social reform, Peel also contributed to shaping the modern conservative party. (Gale, 2004, pg.181) Peel had established himself a reputation for having a happy mixture of firmness and compassion after being chief secretary for six years until 1818. In 1821 Sir Robert Peel was called to the high office to serve as home secretary in Lord Liverpool’s government. He served in this position until 1830, only having a brief gap from 1827-1828. Partly due to the accomplishments of Peel, this time was known as “the age of liberal toryism.” Evangelical reformers had long argued against Britain’s legal and penal system which did nothing more than frighten citizens not to commit crimes. (Gale, 2004, pg.182) Peel put a system into place that was aimed at preventing crimes and reforming criminals rather than to just simply punish them. The death penalty for minor crimes was abolished and criminal laws were made simpler and more humane. Prisons were also reformed and brought under the supervision of the central government. In the Metropolitan Police Act of 1829, Peel laid the foundations of a modern professional police force. (Gale, 2004, pg.182) This act established the London Police Force, whose members were called “Peelers” or “Bobbies.” (Gale,
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