Du Systeme Penitentiaire aux Etats-Unis et de son Application en France; Suivi d'un Appendice sur les Colonies Penales et de Notes Statistiques.
Paris: H. Fournier, 1833.
Illustrated at rear with 5 plates depicting prisons and their floor plans, 3 folding. (iv), (viii), 439 pages. 8vo, attractively bound in contemporary 1/4 black calf; marbled boards and endpapers (minor rubbing to extremities; light foxing throughout). Paris: H. Fournier Jeune, 1833. First edition. A very good(+) copy.
In 1831 Beaumont and De Tocqueville were commissioned by the French government to examine America's latest prisons, which were renowned for their innovative approaches to penology. Their nine-month tour included visits to prisons in Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York and Pennsylvania. "Du Systeme Penitentiaire aux Etats-Unis", the result of their tour, was an immediate success that was quickly translated into English and German. It was one of the most influential books on penology ever written. The authors were affected deeply by their experiences in the United States. It led Beaumont to espouse abolition and inspired De Tocqueville to write "De la Democratie en Amerique" two years later. -- Sabin, A Dictionary of Books Relating to America 4190.
Binding: Hardcover
Condition: Very Good(+)
Language: French
Price: $2,000.00
Item #299180