This reference covers the full gamut of the American penal system. From the early Pennsylvania and Auburn models, both of which drove many prisoners mad, to limited contemporary efforts to privatize prisons, this guide covers the entire history of prisons in America. Entries include important figures such as famous and infamous wardens, notable prisoners, prisons, escapes, prison riots, fires, prison society, convict labour, scandals and triumphs, reformers and terminology. It also covers key social issues connected to prisons such as overcrowding, mistreatment of prisoners, and the cost of maintaining prison programmes.