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Prison reformer John Howard visiting a prison
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Prison reformer John Howard visiting a prison
An engraving of Francis Wheatleys 1787 painting of John Howard Visiting and Relieving the Miseries of a Prison. Howard (third from right) (1726-1790) is shown reproaching an indifferent-looking gaoler over the condition of the prisons hapless inmates
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Media ID 4470951
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10424881
1787 Complaint Condition Crime Francis Gaol Gaoler Howard Indifferent Inmate Inmates Jail L Aw Miseries Misery Philanthropist Philanthropy Prison Punishment Reform Reformer Relieving Reproach Visiting Jailer Reproaching
EDITORS COMMENTS
John Howard, the renowned prison reformer and philanthropist, is depicted in this engraving of Francis Wheatley's 1787 painting, "John Howard Visiting and Relieving the Miseries of a Prison." Howard, dressed in a simple coat and hat, is shown in the center of the image, third from the right, with a serious expression as he reproaches an indifferent-looking gaoler over the deplorable condition of the hapless inmates. The gaoler, with a nonchalant attitude, turns away from Howard, seemingly unconcerned about the suffering of those in his care. Howard's visit to the prison was part of his extensive investigation into the state of prisons and jails in England and Wales. His findings, published in 1777 in "The State of the Prisons," exposed the appalling conditions and cruelty inflicted upon inmates, leading to widespread public outrage and calls for reform. The painting captures the stark contrast between Howard's compassionate nature and the callousness of the prison system at the time. The inmates, huddled in the background, are shown in various stages of despair, some chained to the walls, while others are emaciated and near death. The dimly lit, cramped, and unsanitary conditions of the prison are also evident. Howard's visit and subsequent report marked a turning point in the history of prison reform, leading to the establishment of the Philanthropic Society for Improving Prison Discipline and the eventual passage of the Penitentiary Act of 1779, which aimed to improve prison conditions and promote rehabilitation rather than punishment. This engraving serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, empathy, and the pursuit of justice and human dignity in the face of adversity.
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