Trials: Murder on the high seas and trial by jury

In the second episode in our mini-series on trial records, we look at the long and colourful history of trial by jury.

First, we hear about the sensational Victorian case of two sailors who resorted to cannibalism after being stranded on the high seas. Then a barrister and historian explains the origins of trial by jury, how juries have evolved over 600 years, and why it’s so important to understand their history.

Download the full episode transcript here.

Documents from The National Archives used in this episode: DPP 4/17; HO 144/141/A36934; KB 6/6.

If you’re interested in finding out more about our trial records take a look at our criminals, courts and prisons research guides. For help navigating our catalogue, you can watch our top level tips on using Discovery.

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