Broadmoor and Beyond: The history of high security hospitals (BSL)

The secure hospital system emerged after the trial of James Hadfield who, in 1800, attempted to assassinate the king. Hadfield was clearly unwell, but the courts did not want to release him as ‘not guilty by reason of insanity’. This led to the creation of a new ‘criminal lunatic’ wing at Bethlem Hospital. In 1863, this was replaced with the new Broadmoor Hospital.

This talk by historian Jade Shepherd explores the history of these hospitals, from Broadmoor to modern secure units.

Image: Broadmoor Hospital, 1867 (Wellcome Collection).

This event is open to all and takes place in person only. It will be BSL translated.

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