Here, for the first time, we have a comprehensive account of the death penalty in the United States. Stuart Banner tells the story of dramatic changes, over four centuries, in the ways capital punishment has been administered and experienced. Banner moves beyond the debates to give us an unprecedented understanding of America's ultimate punishment.

Here, for the first time, is a comprehensive account of the death penalty in the United States. Banner tells the story of dramatic changes, over four centuries, in the ways capital punishment has been administered and experienced. 12 illustrations.