Publisher's Synopsis
""State Prisons: And The Penitentiary System Vindicated"" is a book written by an anonymous author who identifies themselves only as ""An Officer Establishment At Charlestown."" The book was originally published in 1821 and provides a thorough analysis of the state prison system in the United States during the early 19th century.The author argues that the penitentiary system, which was a relatively new approach to criminal justice at the time, was a more effective and humane way of punishing and rehabilitating criminals than traditional methods such as public flogging, branding, and imprisonment in overcrowded and unsanitary jails.The book begins with a historical overview of the development of the penitentiary system in Europe and America, including the influential work of reformers such as John Howard and Jeremy Bentham. The author then goes on to describe the specific features of the penitentiary system, such as solitary confinement, hard labor, and religious instruction.Throughout the book, the author provides examples of successful implementation of the penitentiary system in various states, as well as rebuttals to common criticisms of the system, such as the idea that it is too expensive or that it is too harsh on prisoners.The author also discusses the role of the state in administering the prison system, arguing that it is the responsibility of the government to ensure that prisoners are treated fairly and that the system is effective in reducing crime and rehabilitating offenders.Overall, ""State Prisons: And The Penitentiary System Vindicated"" is a comprehensive and persuasive defense of the penitentiary system as a more humane and effective approach to criminal justice than traditional methods.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.