History of Capital Punishment

The video explores the history of capital punishment in the United States, tracing its origins from the colonial era to modern times. It discusses early abolition movements, technological advancements like the electric chair and gas chamber, and significant legal challenges, including the Ferman v. Georgia case. The reinstatement of the death penalty in 1976 and the ongoing debates surrounding its use are also covered, highlighting shifts in public opinion and recent state-level abolitions.

What was the preferred method of execution during the colonial era in America?

• Burning

• Hanging

• Beating

• Breaking on a wheel

Which Founding Father attempted to amend Virginia laws regarding the death penalty in 1777?

• Benjamin Franklin

• Thomas Jefferson

• John Adams

• George Washington

Which state was the first to eliminate the death penalty for all crimes except treason?

• New York

• Virginia

• Michigan

• California

What technological advancement was introduced in 1890 as a more humane method of execution?

• Firing squad

• Lethal injection

• Electric chair

• Gas chamber

Which method of execution was introduced in 1924 as a supposedly more humane option?

• Electric chair

• Gas chamber

• Firing squad

• Lethal injection

What was the main reason for the reestablishment of the death penalty by 1920?

• A decline in crime rates

• Public demand for harsher punishments

• World War I and the threat of a socialist revolution

• Technological advancements

What was the impact of the Furman v. Georgia case in 1972?

• It abolished the death penalty permanently.

• It ruled that the death penalty was unconstitutional.

• It temporarily halted the death penalty.

• It reinstated the death penalty.

When was lethal injection first used as a method of execution?

• 1972

• 1982

• 1994

• 2011

What was the public opinion on capital punishment in the United States in 1994?

• It was at its lowest point.

• It was at its highest point.

• It was steadily declining.

• It was steadily increasing.

What was the outcome of the Gregg decision in 1976?

• The death penalty was limited to federal crimes.

• The death penalty was declared unconstitutional.

• The death penalty was reinstated.

• The death penalty was abolished.