Public execution

Epic card · No. 9164

A public execution is a form of capital punishment which may be attended by the general public. This definition excludes the presence of only a small number of witnesses called upon to assure executive accountability. The purpose of such displays has historically been to deter individuals from defying laws or authorities. Attendance at such events was historically encouraged and sometimes even mandatory. Most countries have abolished capital punishment, or retain it in law but have ceased in practice. While today most countries regard public executions with distaste, they have been practised nearly everywhere at some point in history. At many points in the past, public executions were preferred to executions behind closed doors because of their supposed deterrence. However, the actual efficacy of this form of terror is disputed. They also allowed the convicted the opportunity to make a final speech, gave the state the chance to display its power in front of those who fell under its jurisdiction...

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