Final answer:
In the early 1800s in England, crimes were classified as capital offenses, but reforms were introduced to reduce the number of offenses punishable by death. Women were protected from receiving the death sentence, and there were differences in the application of laws based on gender.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the early 1800s in England, many crimes were classified as capital offenses and were punishable by death. However, due to the large number of crimes falling into this category, juries often refused to convict criminals because of the harsh punishment.
As a result, reforms were implemented to reduce the offenses that were considered capital offenses, and the death penalty was reserved for crimes like murder, treason, piracy, and arson. Additionally, petty criminals were sent to penal colonies in newly acquired British territories, such as Australia and New Zealand. By 1868, Parliament ended public hangings and further reforms were introduced.
During this time, there were also differences in the application of laws based on gender. Women in England were not allowed to own land or vote. They were also protected from receiving a death sentence for crimes that men could be executed for, as it was considered too shocking to see a woman hanged publicly. In some instances, men could even be fined for certain behaviors in the presence of a woman, such as swearing or spitting.