Early modern punishments

• What was the original purpose of prisons in early modern times?

  They were holding areas while people waited for their trials or punishment.
• Why did prisoners have to pay the prison wardens?

  To cover their food and keep.
• What conditions were prisons known for during early modern times?

  They were dirty and unhealthy.
• Who was often kept together in early modern prisons?

  Women, men, and children.
• What was a common issue faced by younger prisoners?

  They were often abused or taught to be more serious criminals.
• When was Bridewell Palace opened?

  In 1556.
• What was the purpose of Bridewell Palace?

  It was the first prison intended to punish people.
• What type of individuals were often punished at Bridewell Palace?

  Vagabonds.
• What were inmates at Bridewell Palace required to do?

  Pay for their keep and do hard labour.
• How many capital crimes were there by 1688?

  50 capital crimes.
• What is the term historians use to refer to the increase in capital crimes?

  The 'Bloody Code'.
• What was the intended purpose of the Bloody Code?

  To act as a deterrent against crime.
• Why did the Bloody Code fail as a deterrent?

  Most crimes were committed out of desperation.
• What was a common outcome for many criminals under the Bloody Code?

  Many were pardoned instead of executed.
• What punishment was introduced during the reign of James I?

  Transportation to England's colonies in North America.
• Why was transportation introduced as a punishment?

  Because England didn't have an effective prison system.
• What was one benefit of transporting prisoners to colonies?

  Prisoners could provide manpower for the new colonies.
• How long did prisoners spend doing hard labour in Australia?

  14 years or 7 years.
• What was a common issue for prisoners at the end of their sentence in Australia?

  They usually had no money to transport themselves back to Britain.
• What new belief did transportation represent regarding criminals?

  Criminals should have the chance for a fresh start and change their way of life.