Early mugshots from the 20th century provide a glimpse into the criminal justice system of the time. These photographs were taken of individuals who had been arrested and charged with various crimes, and were used for identification and record-keeping purposes. The mugshots often show the individuals in a stark, unadorned setting, with a plain background and a serious expression on their face. They were typically taken from the front and profile, to show the person’s face and profile.
Many of these early mugshots have a sense of stoicism and resignation in the faces of the condemned. Some appear to have been taken shortly after arrest, while others were taken on the day of execution. These photographs are a sobering reminder of the harsh realities of the criminal justice system during this period, and the often dire consequences that individuals faced for their actions.
Despite their historical significance, these early mugshots have also been subject to privacy concerns and ethical debate. The use of mugshots to publicly shame and stigmatize individuals, particularly in the early 20th century, was not uncommon. In the present days, many states have laws that restrict access to mugshots, and some jurisdictions have made them available only upon request or for a fee, with the purpose of protecting the rights of the individuals depicted in the photographs.Regenerate