Introductory chapters trace the imposition of the death penalty in the United States, both before and after the Supreme Court's 1972 decision in Furman v. Georgia. Studies documenting racial discrimination in sentencing are reviewed, as are death penalty cases involving juveniles and the mentally ill. Both the appeal process and the use of executive clemency are analyzed. The experience of being under a death sentence is described, as are methods of execution and conditions on death row. Other issues explored include the involvement of doctors and other health professionals, recent changes in Federal law extending the death penalty, and international conventions which generally condemn capital punishment. Arguments for and against the death penalty are summarized. Tables, photographs, and texts of relevant laws are provided.