The history of victimology spans centuries and offers a comprehensive understanding of how societies have recognised, studied and responded to victims of crime and injustice. This field, which emerged as a formal discipline in the mid-20th century, has evolved significantly over time, shaping our perceptions of victims and influencing criminal justice policies. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Victimology, as a distinct academic discipline, gained prominence during the 1940s and 1950s. Prior to this, criminology's focus had been primarily on offenders and the criminal justice system. However, scholars and practitioners have begun to recognize the importance of understanding the experiences and needs of victims themselves. This marked a paradigm shift, giving rise to a new emphasis on victims' rights, experiences and the social impact of victimisation. The early history of victimology can be traced back to the works of pioneers such as Benjamin Mendelsohn and Hans von Hentig. Mendelsohn's work, in particular, laid the foundation for victim-centered research. He introduced the concept of “victim propensity,” suggesting that some individuals might have characteristics that make them more susceptible to becoming victims of crime. While this notion has been criticized for its tendency to blame the victim, it has set the stage for more nuanced explorations into the relationships between victims and offenders. During the second half of the 20th century, victimology continued to evolve with an increased focus on empirical research. The development of victimization surveys has allowed researchers to collect data directly from victims, shedding light on the dark corners of crime that often go unreported. This approach not only expanded our knowledge of the prevalence and nature of victimization, but also highlighted disparities in victimization experiences based on factors such as gender, race, and socioeconomic status. The emergence of victim impact statements in legal proceedings has further underlined the significance of victimology. . These statements allowed victims to express the emotional, financial, and physical toll of the crime on their lives. The incorporation of victims' voices into the criminal justice process has challenged the traditional adversarial system, pushing for a more holistic understanding of the consequences of crime. In recent decades, the history of victimology has witnessed a growing recognition of the importance of trauma-informed approaches. Mental health professionals and victim advocates have highlighted the long-term psychological effects of victimization, advocating for support systems that prioritize healing and resilience. This shift has led to the creation of victim support services, crisis intervention programs, and trauma-focused therapies, creating a more empathetic and comprehensive response to victims' needs. Furthermore, victimology has acquired an increasingly global reach. Victims' experiences vary across cultures and societies, and understanding these nuances is critical to developing effective interventions. Comparative victimology, a subfield that explores cross-cultural differences in victimization and responses, has contributed to a more complete understanding of the universal and culture-specific aspects of victimization. The history of victimology has not only shaped academic discourse, but has..