Final answer:
It is true that historically, individuals found guilty of capital crimes could be hanged even if they confessed and repented. The British system in the 1800s is one example where many crimes were initially capital offenses, leading to death sentences that were later reformed.
Step-by-step explanation:
During certain historical periods, if a person was found guilty of a capital crime, even if they confessed and repented, they would still be hanged. This is true. Capital crimes were severe offenses that could warrant the death penalty, which included crimes such as murder, treason, piracy, and arson. Historical records show that such sentences were executed regardless of the accused's repentance, although the practice and severity of the punishment could vary depending on the time period and legal system in question.
For example, during the early 1800s, the British judicial system considered more than 200 crimes as capital offenses. However, due in part to the harshness of this system, juries often hesitated to convict, and, later on, reforms were made to reduce the number of offenses that could result in a death sentence. By 1868, public hangings were abolished in the British Parliament.