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One of the fascinating aspects of this particular subject is how the post-1845 public debate and legislative decision-making regarding the death penalty in Rhode Island was largely shaped by a single incident: the brutal murder of wealthy Yankee mill owner Amasa Sprague on December 31, 1843, and the subsequent conviction and execution of accused Irish immigrant John Gordon. Gordon, who was hanged on February 14, 1845, was the last person executed in Rhode Island. His trial provides a real window into the social tensions and class prejudices of the time, and it is interesting to see how lingering questions about Gordon's innocence and the fairness of his trial, and public remorse for his death, have played a pivotal role in keeping the death penalty from being carried out in Rhode Island for over 160 years.
Russell Wolfgang-Smith graduated from Georgetown University Law Center and has many years of experience as a trial attorney. He is also an award-winning mixed media sculptor and installation artist. His interests include law, art, history, literature, public speaking, and music.
Needs: Lighted lectern/water