When did the modern prison system as we know it today emerge?

The emergence of the modern prison system is often linked to the late 18th century, particularly around the 1790s. This period marked a significant transformation in the way society views crime and punishment, shifting from corporal punishment and public executions to a more rehabilitative approach. The introduction of concepts such as penitentiaries began during this time, emphasizing reform and rehabilitation over mere punishment. Additionally, influential thinkers and reformers such as the philosopher Cesare Beccaria and the Quakers advocated for more humane treatment of prisoners, leading to the establishment of structures that prioritized rehabilitation.

During this period, prison designs and regulations started evolving to focus on confinement conditions, separation of prisoners, and promoting moral reform rather than just confinement. This laid the groundwork for the modern prison system, which emphasizes the potential for rehabilitation. Thus, pinpointing this historical change to the late 18th century captures the foundational ideas that shaped contemporary correctional practices.