London, the capital city of England, has a rich history that dates back centuries. One aspect of its history that often piques people’s curiosity is why the police force in London is called the Metropolitan Police. In this article, we will explore the origins of the Metropolitan Police and shed some light on why they are referred to as such.
What is the Metropolitan Police?
The Metropolitan Police, also known as Scotland Yard, is the police force responsible for law enforcement in Greater London. It was established in 1829 by Sir Robert Peel, who was then serving as Home Secretary in the British government. The Metropolitan Police was the first modern police force in the world and set a precedent for other police forces across the globe.
Why are they called ‘Metropolitan’?
The term ‘Metropolitan’ refers to a large city or urban area. The Metropolitan Police was named after its jurisdiction – Greater London – which is considered a metropolitan area due to its size and population density. The word ‘Metropolitan’ essentially means ‘of or pertaining to a metropolis’.
The Origins of Scotland Yard
Scotland Yard is another name for the headquarters of the Metropolitan Police, located on Victoria Embankment in central London. It’s interesting to note that this nickname has nothing to do with Scotland; rather it comes from the location of the original headquarters of the police force.
In 1829, when Sir Robert Peel created the Metropolitan Police Force, he needed a location for its headquarters. He chose a building on Whitehall Place that had previously been used as a residence by Scottish kings when they visited London. This building had an entrance on Great Scotland Yard and thus became known as Scotland Yard.
The Role of The Met
The role of The Met (as it is commonly referred to) is to uphold law and order within Greater London. This involves investigating crimes, preventing crime, and ensuring public safety. The Met also has a range of specialist units, such as the Counter Terrorism Command, the Marine Policing Unit, and the Dog Support Unit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Metropolitan Police is called such because it serves Greater London, which is a metropolitan area. The name ‘Scotland Yard’ comes from the location of the original headquarters of the police force and has nothing to do with Scotland. Regardless of its name and history, the Metropolitan Police plays a crucial role in keeping London safe and secure for its residents and visitors alike.