Bobbies

Why are British police officers often called “bobbies"? The concept of modern policing was first introduced in pre -Victorian England. Prior to that, law and order was maintained by night watchmen,constables, and soldiers who were meant to quell political troubles. In 1829, Sir Robert Peel, a minister, came up with the idea of an organised police force that would be accountable not just to the rulers but also to the citizens .Thus was born the Metropolitan Police Force in London, now known as Scotland Yard. People named Robert are often called Bobby, so these men came to be referred to as “peelers" and , more popularly, “bobbies".