The police force, a cornerstone of modern society, has its roots stretching back to the 19th century, with the Metropolitan Police in the UK being established in 1829. Over time, various slang terms have emerged to refer to law enforcement officers. One such popular term, particularly in certain regions, is “12.” But why are police called 12?
Decoding “12”: What Does It Mean?
The slang term “12” for police officers is most notably used in the Southern States of America, especially in Atlanta, Georgia. This moniker has permeated popular culture, particularly within hip-hop music and related communities. The term “12” can carry different connotations depending on the speaker and context. While some may use it pejoratively or dismissively, others might employ it neutrally, or even in a more informal, less aggressive manner.
Origins of “12”: Exploring the Theories
While the exact origin of referring to cops as “12” remains somewhat shrouded in speculation, several theories attempt to explain its emergence.
The Radio Code Connection
One prominent theory suggests that “12” is derived from the police radio code “10-12.” In law enforcement radio communication, particularly in the past, “10-12” was a ten-code signifying “stand by” or “wait.” This code was prevalent in police radio communication during the 1960s and 1970s.
The theory posits that the brevity and numerical nature of “12” made it a convenient and quick way to refer to police presence, especially when needing to communicate discreetly or rapidly. It became a shorthand to alert others to the presence of law enforcement in an area.
The ACAB Theory
Another, more controversial, theory links “12” to the acronym ACAB, which stands for “All Cops Are Bastards.” This acronym is a derogatory and offensive term used by some to express anti-police sentiment. Numerically, ACAB can be represented as 1312, where 1 corresponds to A, 3 to C, 2 to B.
Proponents of this theory suggest that “1312” was further shortened to simply “12” as a more concise slang term to refer to police, carrying the negative connotations associated with ACAB.
The “Adam-12” TV Show Theory
A more pop-culture-centric theory points to the influence of the classic police television show “Adam-12.” This popular TV series, which aired from 1968 to 1975, followed the daily routines of two Los Angeles Police Department officers patrolling the city in their patrol unit, designated “1-Adam-12.”
The show was widely watched and depicted police officers in a realistic and often positive light. It’s theorized that the prominent use of “12” in the show’s title and patrol car designation may have seeped into popular slang as a way to refer to police officers, much like “5-0” became synonymous with police due to the show “Hawaii Five-O.”
Why is “12” Used?
Regardless of its precise origin, the term “12” serves several purposes in contemporary slang.
- Warning and Alert: Primarily, “12” functions as a warning signal to alert individuals to the presence of law enforcement in the vicinity. This can be to avoid an area where police are present, or to warn others against engaging in illegal activities.
- Pop Culture Popularization: The term has been significantly amplified by pop culture, especially hip-hop music, movies, and television. Its use in these media has cemented “12” as a widely recognized and accepted slang term for cops. For instance, the 1995 comedy film Friday notably features the term “12” as a warning about approaching police.
When Did “12” Become Police Slang?
The use of “12” as slang for law enforcement began to gain traction in the late 1960s. It rapidly gained momentum and became integrated into popular culture throughout the subsequent decades, solidifying its place as a common moniker for police officers.
FAQs
1. Where did the term “police” originate?
The word “police” traces its origins back to the Greek term “politeia,” meaning “citizenship” or “government,” which evolved into “politia” and then “police” in French before entering the English language.
2. What is the origin of professional policing?
The concept of a professional, organized police force originated in the United Kingdom in the early 19th century.
3. What was the name of the first modern police force?
The Metropolitan Police, established in London in 1829, is considered the first modern police force.
4. In summary, why are cops called 12?
“12” serves as a slang term to signal the presence of law enforcement, potentially derived from police radio codes, the acronym ACAB, or the TV show “Adam-12,” with the radio code and pop culture theories being more widely accepted.
5. When did “12” start being used for police?
The late 1960s is when “12” began to emerge as a slang term for police, quickly gaining popularity and becoming a common warning term.
6. Is calling the police “12” disrespectful?
While the term “12” can be used in a disrespectful context, particularly when linked to ACAB, the term itself is not inherently disrespectful. Its connotation largely depends on the intent and tone of the speaker.
In conclusion, the term “12” for police officers is a multifaceted slang term with several proposed origins, ranging from practical radio codes to pop culture influences. Regardless of its precise etymology, “12” has become a widely understood term, predominantly used to signal police presence, particularly within specific subcultures and regions.
