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Penal colonies Books
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Arthur Griffiths
Prisons Over Seas Deportation and Colonization; British and American Prisons of To-day
"Prisons Over Seas" by Arthur Griffiths is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the systems of deportation and colonization related to the British and American prison systems, focusing on the treatment and lives of convicts transported across seas. Griffiths, who served as an inspector of prisons in Great Britain, seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of the various penal institutions and practices, revealing the broader implications of crime and punishment during this era. At the start of the book, Griffiths introduces the topic of British transportation and its historical context, discussing how the elimination of certain offenders from society led to the establishment of penal colonies. He details the journey of the first fleet of convicts sent to Australia, the hardships they faced during their arrival, and the challenges in settling a new colony comprised largely of transported criminals. The outlined conditions showcase the early struggles for survival, including famine and lawlessness within the convict community, as well as the implications of their transportation on both the individuals involved and the emerging society in New South Wales. Overall, these opening chapters set the stage for a detailed exploration of convict life, governance, and societal development in the penal colonies.
Arthur Griffiths
Millbank Penitentiary: An Experiment in Reformation
"Millbank Penitentiary: An Experiment in Reformation" by Arthur Griffiths is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the development, management, and challenges faced by the Millbank Penitentiary, which was a significant institution in the British penal system. Through a detailed examination of the prison's design, governing authorities, reform efforts, and the lives of the inmates, the author provides insight into the evolution of criminal rehabilitation practices during that time. The opening of the work sets the stage by detailing the foundation of Millbank Penitentiary near the Thames and the motivations behind its establishment, including the influence of reformers such as John Howard and Jeremy Bentham. The introduction highlights the architectural features of the prison and the initial plans for its management, emphasizing the aspirations for reform and rehabilitation rather than mere punishment. It also outlines the roles of various officials and the expectations placed on them, as well as the early challenges faced, including management difficulties and issues of inmate behavior. This foundation creates a backdrop for a deeper exploration of the penitentiary's history, illustrating the complexities of governing a reformatory institution.
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