Definition of penitentiary

The word "penitentiary" derives from the Latin root word "poenitēntia", which translates to "repentance". In medieval times, "penitentiary" referred to a priest who heard confessions and imposed penances upon the penitent as a form of atonement. However, during the 18th century, the use of the term "penitentiary" began to change as a result of the growth of the prison system. In 1717, the first penitentiary, known as the Walnut Street Jail, was opened in Philadelphia as a response to the overcrowding and inhumane treatment of prisoners in local jails. The purpose of the penitentiary was to reform and transform the criminal into a repentant and productive member of society through isolation, solitary confinement, and hard labor. The idea was that the harsh conditions would force the prisoner to acknowledge their crimes, feel remorse, and reject a life of crime. The Auburn Plan, which was developed in the early 19th century, was a radical reform that allowed for more social interaction among prisoners, but still maintained strict discipline and hard labor. This plan served as a model for many of the later penitentiaries, which continued to operate on the principles of punishment and rehabilitation, though the focus gradually shifted towards rehabilitation and reform instead of punishment. In summary, the word "penitentiary" originated from "poenitēntia", meaning "repentance", and was used to describe priests who guided the penitent through confession and atonement. Its meaning evolved over time to refer to institutions of incarceration and punishment that were intended to reform and transform prisoners through discipline and hard labor.