SLAVERY AND THE DEATH PENALTY

Slave Society

A society dominated around human enslavement, where the slave economy influenced daily life.

Legal Status of Enslaved People

Enslaved people were considered property, affecting their status as legal subjects.

Public Execution

A method used to instill fear in enslaved people and maintain control within the slave society.

North Carolina Capital Crimes (Pre-1855)

A total of 28 capital crimes included arson, murder, burglary, and aiding enslaved escapes.

Changes in 1855

Capital crimes in NC were reduced to 12, reflecting a shift in legal severity.

State v. Mann (1830)

A legal case affirming the absolute power of the master over the enslaved, highlighting their lack of legal rights.

Execution Under Slavery

Used as a tool of control, compensating enslavers and reinforcing state-sanctioned terror.

Post-Civil War Legal Changes

Capital crimes were reduced to four: murder, rape, burglary, arson; establishing a state prison system.

Categories of Punishment After the Civil War

Included retributive punishments (death penalty, cruel imprisonments) and rehabilitative punishments.

Role of Public Executions

Maintained slavery by intimidating other enslaved people through state-sanctioned violence.