The Emergence of Forensic Doctors, Naples, 17th century

The management of the medical emergency is assigned to the corporation of the barbers of Naples. These practitioners integrate into first aid an examination aiming to identify the causes of the death and the weapon used against the injured. The intervention of the barbers during incidents disturbing public order confers them a significant role in their regulation, involving a cooperation with the judicial institutions, without an effective integration. The redaction of medical expertise is of competence of the physician. The gradual disappearance of the barbers in the 18th century and the development of surgery promote the union of forensic examination and expertise.