The 18th century was a very transitional time, especially for the legal system. During this time there was a blurring of crime and protest, a combination of traditional and elemental elements in the legal system, as well as the emergence of a modern police system. This time was also a transitional period for sexual relations. During the 18th century many men who were accused of rape could simply deny the charges, and, depending on popular opinion, the charges were usually dropped. During the 19th century the prosecution of men accused of sexual assault was just as difficult as it had been in the 18th century. The only major change that occurred, was that a colored woman now had the authority to accuse men of rape. At the time many men were
