Constable - GCSE History Definition

In the context of GCSE History, a constable refers to a law enforcement officer in medieval and early modern England, responsible for maintaining public order within a town or parish. Constables were important figures in the local community, often appointed by the ruling monarch or noble, and were tasked with upholding laws, apprehending criminals, and overseeing the work of night watchmen and other minor officers. Their role evolved over time, eventually contributing to the development of modern policing. Understanding the function and duties of a constable helps students grasp how historical systems of law enforcement and justice were organised and how they have influenced present-day practices.