Pressing | History's Most Painful Death

The video explores the historical practice of pressing as a form of punishment in England and its use during the Salem witch trials. Pressing involved placing heavy weights on a person to coerce a plea or as punishment. It was used to avoid trial, allowing families to retain property. Notable cases include Margaret Clitheroe and Giles Corey. The practice was legal until 1772 when it was outlawed in Britain.

What was the primary purpose of pressing as a punishment in England?

• To execute criminals swiftly

• To coerce a plea from suspected criminals

• To test the strength of the accused

• To entertain the public

Why did Margaret Clitheroe refuse to enter a plea?

• She wanted to protect her family's property

• She was unaware of the consequences

• She believed she would be found innocent

• She hoped for a royal pardon

What was the fate of Major Strangeways after refusing to plead?

• He was pressed to death

• He was pardoned

• He was hanged

• He was exiled

What was unique about Giles Corey's response during his pressing?

• He confessed to witchcraft

• He repeatedly asked for more weight

• He sang hymns

• He pleaded for mercy

What legal advantage did pressing offer to the families of the accused?

• It granted them immunity from future accusations

• It provided them with financial compensation

• It enabled them to inherit the accused's property

• It allowed them to avoid public shame

When was the practice of pressing finally outlawed in Great Britain?

• 1692

• 1600

• 1772

• 1800

What was the main reason pressing was considered a gruesome punishment?

• It was reserved for high-profile criminals

• It involved slow and painful suffocation

• It was a public spectacle

• It was a quick and unexpected death