Category: Soviet Studies (1917-1991)

Generally speaking, the Hangman will leave the body hanging for one-hour before the back of the neck is “measured” to prove the bones are separated. Immediately after the Execution is complete – all involved head to the Prison Canteen where they eat a special slap-up breakfast – a celebration that the Will of the State has been successfully carried-out. The Hangman then must return and take-down the body – which is stripped naked and washed before being re-dressed in burial clothing. The deceased body is then placed in a cheap wooden coffin and buried somewhere in the prison grounds in an unmarked grave – whilst the Chaplain carries-out all the relevant duties and procedures. The “Prison Number” of the inmate is inscribed on a secret map recording the location of the grave – kept only in the Governor’s Office. In the UK Judical System – the body of a convicted and executed felon belongs permanently to the State – and can never be given back to his or her family.