This article dispels the notion that the advent of this correctional measure effected more humane treatment of petty offenders, rescuing deserving misdemeanants from the horrible conditions which existed in the jails of those times. The reality is that, in more than one instance, a bureaucratic apparatus emerged which resulted in misdemeanants being used as pawns in interagency power struggles. Historical analysis suggests that misdemeanor parole laws were motivated by political/bureaucratic expedience as well as the desire for reform. 1 table, 3 notes, and 46 references. (Author abstract)