AJ+Crime&Punishment+Police

The police system originated from ancient times and Egypt had the first justice system we know of. In Egypt, the empire was divided into 42 jurisdictions and for each jurisdiction the Pharaoh would appoint an official. This official was responsible for security and justice. The official would be appointed a chief whose title would be Sab Heri Seker, or "King of the Hitters".

The Vizier played a big part in crime-fighting, he was the main judge (he made sure everyone had a fair chance at justice). He was an important police officer and the Pharaoh's right hand man. A Pharaoh or his Vizier would judge the cases that were too complicated for an official. People were expected to report any crimes to these people.

The Pharaoh was the person who established the laws, as he was seen as a God and a king. These laws were made to be fair to all citizens except slaves. The law was mainly based around what beliefs and standards their religion had and the whole law idea was based around the insanely huge Egyptian religion. The laws were also based on the god Ma'at, who spoke for truth and justice.

Greece was next in the timeline of law and order, with the coming of policemen. In Greece the police work was all done by Scythian archers. Not much is known about them; whether they came from Scythia or why they even came to Greece. Scythian archers were barbarian foreigners that lugged brutal weapons. It is odd that Athenians, who were so proud of their people and culture, let barbarian strangers take over a hugely important job, crucial to the making of a civilisation. The Scythians always patrolled the Council (where 500 citizens, 50 from each tribe, gathered to discuss the meeting of the Assembly), the Assembly (where every single citizen came together to argue and discuss every aspect of Athenian life. Unusually for the time, women were included. They particularly enjoyed the opportunity to talk and socialise with others) and the Agora (a Greek marketplace where people could communicate and socialise).

Then came Rome, late but with an effective policing system. There was no real police system in Rome until Emperor Augustus came in and really kick-started law and order. Unfortunately, not much is known about the early laws or what they were based on, but we do know that Emperor Augustus was a great and powerful ruler and that he had an efficient police system that has helped make Rome's police system what it is today... Emperor Augustus has a lot to answer for!