History of the Death Penalty

By samdurocher

  • Fist Instance

    The first instance of execution in America was when there were just some colonies. it was in 1608 and happened in Jamestown. Captain George Kendall was his name and he was a spy for Spain.

  • Beginning of the Reform

    During the early 1900's a "Progressive Period" began in the United States of America. Some states already have abolished the death penalty but not for all crime. But from 1907-1917 nine states abolished or strictly restricted it.

  • First State to Use Gas

    Nevada is the first state to adopt lethal gas as an execution method. Following the use of poisonous gas in WWI. Executes Gee Jon for murder in a specially designed chamber.

  • Last Execution For a While

    Victor Feguer is executed by hanging at the Iowa Penitentiary for kidnapping and murder. He is the last federal prisoner to be executed until Timothy McVeigh is executed in 2001.

  • Infamous Murderers

    After a 9 month trial, Richard Ramirez, “The Night Stalker,” is convicted of 14 murders and sentenced to death in California. Ted Bundy is executed in Florida for the 1978 murders at a Florida State sorority, and the kidnap, rape and murder of 12 year old Kimberley Leach.

  • Peak Execution in America

    Ever since death sentences peaked in mid 90's they have decreased 85%. But the Executions peaked in 1999 and have decreased 75% ever since. The numbers are still on a down trend.

  • Federal Execution is Back!

    Federal executions come back after like thirty years. 66 prisoners are killed in this year. And it looks like its back for a while now.

  • Pause on Executions

    Attorney General, Merrick Garland pauses the federal executions. While they are paused the Department of Justice are reviewing Trumps executive orders. He says its to make sure everyone is being treated fairly and has the rights from the constitution.

  • Least amount since 1972

    Eight-teen people were sentenced to death in 2020 and 2021. The least amount since 1972. These eight teen deaths where all done by five states.

  • Americans Do Not Really like the Death Penalty

    60% oppose the Death Penalty. More people are less likely to oppose it if its about murderers. Republicans like to lean towards the size of liking the death penalty. While democrats usually oppose it.