What is the history of the death penalty?
The death penalty has a long and complex history, dating back to ancient civilizations.
Ancient Civilizations: Capital punishment was used for a variety of crimes in societies like Mesopotamia, Egypt,Greece, and Rome (Zimring & Hawkins, 2006). Methods varied, including stoning, beheading, and crucifixion.
Middle Ages: Executions remained common throughout the Middle Ages in Europe, often overseen by religious authorities. Crimes like heresy and witchcraft were often punishable by death (Evans, 1987)
Enlightenment Era: Philosophers like Beccaria and Montesquieu questioned the morality and effectiveness of the death penalty during the Enlightenment (18th century). This led to some reforms and reductions in capital punishment.(Bedau, 1982)
Modern Era: The death penalty has continued to be used throughout the modern era, with variations in its application and justifications. The United States, for example, reinstated capital punishment in most states after the Furman v.Georgia (1972) Supreme Court decision.
APA: Bedau, H. A. (1982). The death penalty in America (3rd ed.). Oxford University Press.
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