How Americans view police has varied dramatically through history. In 1856, New York police opposed wearing uniforms because they felt it represented a militaristic and nondemocratic type of organization. Today, our police model themselves on the military and use military tactics in the "war" on drugs.

"Policing in America: A Reference Handbook" chronicles our changing ideas and methods of social control, beginning with the first recorded instances. It traces the trends that have shaped America's unique policing system and our fascination with police. It also examines the hot-button...