Prison Reform: 1820s thru 1860s

inmates endured hard labor during day and communal dinner at night to prevent bad mental state. Out of 80 inmates put in solitary confinement, most committed suicide or mental breakdowns.

New York state opened its first penitentiary in recognition of the mentally ill

Auburn prison: many inmates had severe mental breakdowns or committed suicide

set up by Louis Dwight, had officials check prisons periodically. Did not help much but lead to more reforms

conditions got better, less cruel punishments, beginning of the idea that society causes crimes

US has two of the best prisons in the world

Dorothea Dix observed mentally ill, lobbied and helped establish five state hospitals for the mentally ill.

First public psychiatric hospital in Williamsburg, Virginia

Dix’s influence resulted in the Bill of Benefit for the Indigent Insane

Dix convinces pope to examine cruel treatment of the mentally ill. Gained sympathy from Christian people