Drop Dead

A Horrible History of Hanging in Canada

Shining a light on the dark history of hangings in Canada.

Take a journey through notable cases in Canada’s criminal justice history, featuring well known and some lesser known figures from the past. You'll meet Arthur Ellis, Canada’s most famous hangman, whose work outfit was a frock coat and striped trousers, often with a flower pinned to his lapel. And you will also encounter other memorable characters, including the man who was hanged twice and the gun-toting bootlegger who was the only woman every executed in Alberta.

Drop Dead: A Horrible History of Hanging in Canada illustrates how trial, sentencing, and punishment operated in Canada’s first century and examines the relevance of capital punishment today. Along the way, learn about the mathematics and physics behind hangings, as well as disturbing facts about bungled executions and wrongful convictions.

©2017 Lorna Poplak (P)2021 Dundurn

Reseñas de la Crítica

“Fascinating...Drop Dead shines a light on a dark history. Yet, thanks to Poplak's ability as a storyteller, as well as the inclusion of images and a well-curated bibliography, her book is, dare I say, an enjoyable read.” (Canada's History)