When did prisons begin developing?

Answer 1

Prisons began developing as formal institutions in the late Middle Ages, particularly during the 12th and 13th centuries in Europe. Initially, they served as places of detention for those awaiting trial or punishment, rather than for rehabilitation. The concept of incarceration as a form of punishment gained traction in the 18th century, influenced by Enlightenment thinkers who advocated for reform and more humane treatment of offenders. By the 19th century, modern prison systems began to emerge, emphasizing rehabilitation and structured environments.