Evolution Of Execution Research Paper

Evolution of Execution Throughout history, the use of power has changed and is inhibited by stricter law. Nonetheless, power still remains to be misused and can corrupt society; however, the implementation of laws, restrictions, and more just practices allows for the world to be a better, more humane place. Looking back at times of absolutists and ultimate power, the extent of their actions and power made it terrifying for everyday citizens. Not only did this high power obtain more money and land than they could ever imagine, it also could determine their livelihood and potentially their death. If a poor or low-class person was suspected, accused, or just disagreed with the beliefs of the power above them, their life could likely be in danger. Furthermore, Kings and Queens readily and willingly could call for any person to be executed, even if that person was innocent. In fact, executions were so common that there were designated areas for public display and even designated executioners. Surprisingly, these executions in a way were a form of public entertainment, which now would be considered …show more content…
Just like another form of beheading, the guillotine would chop off the head of the accused. Although this sounds inhumane, the accuracy and quickness of the machine made the death completely painless. In 1790, Doctor Joseph Guillotin invented this machine in the hopes of making capital punishment painless and equal. As he wished, the guillotine would become the official execution method for all classes, as the French civilian assembly stated, “Every person condemned to the death penalty shall have his head severed.”3 Once created, thousands of people were executed with this method, including the infamous Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. The last time guillotine execution was in France in 1977, and although it was rather humane in most regards, newer and less ostentatious methods were enforced.