jan 1, 1840 - politics and policing

Description:

During the Political Era, which lasted from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century in the United States, law enforcement officers were frequently chosen based on political affiliations and connections, rather than their qualifications or merit. This resulted in a lack of professionalism and accountability within police departments, as the officers were not necessarily the most qualified or experienced individuals for the job. This practice also led to rampant corruption, with many officers accepting bribes and engaging in other criminal activities. These corrupt practices were often protected by higher-ups within the department and local political officials, who used their power to shield officers from prosecution and punishment. Overall, the Political Era was a time of widespread corruption and political influence within law enforcement, which greatly hindered the ability of police departments to serve and protect the communities they were tasked with serving.

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