History - Crime and Punishment - 18th and 19th century - The old prison system

18th - 19th Century:

The old prison system:

Early 1800s

• All prisoners housed together
• Hardened criminals mixed with petty criminals, debtors, lunatics, women and children
• Stories were spread and plans made so there was a concern prisons became schools for crime

• Prison warders were unpaid and earnt money be charging prisoners fees.
• Rich could have their own cell with good food and beer, tobacco, vistitors and a pet…