Jury System In The 19th Century

Juries have been around for over one thousand years. “The jury system originated in Normandy and was brought to England by William the Conqueror in 1066” (Judiciary). The jury system back then was more like a group of witnesses telling the court what they knew about the case at hand. When England was introduced to the jury system, “the king reserved it for his use only” (Judiciary). “The jury would provide the king with evidence; and he would in turn make the verdict” (Judiciary). As time progressed, the role of the jury changed. “By the 15th century, the jury was the most valuable part of the English common law” (Judiciary). Parties could object to who was in the jury, but that did not stop jurors from being impartial. Also, the jury still could not make the verdict. “Finally, in the 17th century, juries could deliver the verdict” (Judiciary). After this development, the jury system was taken to America. “The English did not allow a jury for all trials; and this angered the colonists” (‘Juries”). They wanted a right to a jury for every trial; and this was another reason why the revolted against the English. “After winning the Revolutionary War, the right to a jury for all trials was symbol of overthrowing the king’s power” (Judiciary). “The United States also

Recent cases have proven that there are some flaws in the system. There have been several cases within the past two years that have caused turmoil and anger throughout the country. They have all been between white police officers and black males. It has been stated by several people that there is leeway with the officers, due to their race. These allegations have started to make the United States’ jury system unravel. These cases have started to make the United States’ jury system look unjust. The government has tried to address the cases as best they can; but the United States may have to modify their seemingly “perfect” jury