Arthur Griffiths
Non-Criminal Prisons
English Debtor's Prisons and Prisons of War; French War Prisons; American War Prisons with References to Those of Other Lands
"Non-Criminal Prisons" by Arthur Griffiths is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the nature and treatment of prisoners in various types of non-criminal prisons, including English debtor’s prisons and military detainment facilities throughout history. Griffiths delves into the treatment of individuals confined, often unjustly, for debts or as prisoners of war, highlighting the inherent cruelty and societal implications of such practices. The opening of the work presents an introduction to the concept of non-criminal imprisonment, discussing the historical context in which individuals who had committed no real crime were confined. Griffiths tackles the harsh realities faced by debtors and prisoners of war, detailing how systems were manipulated for financial gain. He reflects on the injustices perpetrated by creditors and the inhumane conditions endured by those incarcerated, providing a critique of the legal systems that allowed such abuses to persist. The author sets the stage for a detailed exploration of specific infamous prisons, their management misdeeds, and the wider societal ramifications of these injustices throughout history.