The Encyclopedia of American Prisons

by Carl Sifakis

From historical issues and institutions to current controversies, this encyclopedia presents entries describing terms, important individuals, legal cases, scandals, historical events, and other items related to the American penal system. Freelance writer Sifakis is clearly sympathetic to leftist criticisms of the American penal system, both in terms of its current incarnation and past injustices. Subjects covered in the approximately 300 entries include prisoners such as Mumia Abu Jamal and labor activist Tom Mooney, famous riots and fires, prison programs, prominent reformers and wardens, and prisoner support organizations.More than 300 alphabetically arranged entries cover the history of the American prison system, examining prominent figures, famous prisons, riots, escapes, executions, fires, and social issues surrounding prison life.

Genres: True Crime

384 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003