Debtors' prison

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== Debtors' Prison ==

A debtors' prison is a prison for people who are unable to pay debt. Through the late 19th century in Western Europe, debtors' prisons were a common way to deal with unpaid debt. Individuals who could not pay their debts were incarcerated until they could find a way to pay off their creditors, often through labor or by having family members pay the debt.

History

Ancient and Medieval Periods

In ancient times, debtors' prisons were used in Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome. In Rome, the practice was known as "nexum," where debtors could be bound into servitude until the debt was repaid. During the Middle Ages, debtors' prisons were prevalent throughout Europe, and the practice continued into the early modern period.

Early Modern Period

In England, debtors' prisons became particularly notorious during the 17th and 18th centuries. The Fleet Prison and the Marshalsea were among the most infamous. Conditions in these prisons were often harsh, with inmates living in squalor and being subjected to extortion by the prison wardens.

19th Century Reforms

The 19th century saw significant reforms in the treatment of debtors. In England, the Debtors Act 1869 abolished imprisonment for debt, except in cases of fraud. Similar reforms were enacted in other countries, leading to the decline of debtors' prisons.

Modern Era

While traditional debtors' prisons have been abolished in most countries, some argue that modern practices, such as payday loans and credit card debt, can lead to similar situations where individuals are trapped in a cycle of debt. In the United States, there have been reports of individuals being jailed for failing to pay fines or fees, which some critics liken to a modern form of debtors' prison.

Notable Debtors' Prisons

• Fleet Prison
• Marshalsea
• King's Bench Prison
• Ludgate Prison

Related Concepts

• Bankruptcy
• Insolvency
• Debtors Act 1869
• Debt bondage
• Indentured servitude

See Also

• Bankruptcy
• Insolvency
• Debt bondage
• Indentured servitude
• Debtors Act 1869