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Although they have existed in Britain for over a thousand years, it was not until the nineteenth century that prisons became the cornerstone of the penal system. This was a period when great interest was shown in penal theory, and rival systems fought for supremacy. More than fifteen million receptions into prison were made between 1837 and 1901, the vast majority into small, local prisons. However, a national prison system was established during the Victorian period, starting with the introduction of convict prisons for those convicted of felony. This book looks at the development of prison buildings, at the life and labour of prisoners, and the position of prison officers. Attitudes to women and juvenile prisoners are also examined.

Trevor May is a professional historian and freelance writer. He has written over a dozen books on social and economic history topics, including seven Shire Albums.