Topic > Wildest Show in the West Analysis - 743

Adams' research in the Angola prison yielded information on the different races within the prisons. Through his exploration, it became apparent that there are more people of color than white people behind bars (Adams, 104). Analysis of executions has shown that more men than women are executed. Adams highlighted in his research that when the museum in Angola opened, there were eight mug shots of men and only one of a woman on display who were executed (Adams, 101). In the course of his research on prison and rodeo, Adams reveals the great inequality of economic power within the prison system. Investigations into the winnings of inmate cowboys and the profits from their “artisanal hobbies” show that these are fed back into the prison economy, when prisoners purchase cigarettes, food and gifts for their family (Adams, 97). Throughout the article, many interesting facts and images have been shared with readers. Adams' in-depth account of the rodeo and execution chambers was interesting. However, what stands out most in the article is the inmates' desire to take part in such a gruesome event. The prisoners explained that being part of the rodeo offers a moment of freedom from their sentence (Adams, 99). The idea that the rodeo is a release for prisoners is an interesting idea. Time spent in the law not only provides entertainment to outsiders, but also fosters an environment where those held captive can gain a brief moment of freedom. Although many inmates endure physical pain during their time in the ring, they believe it eases their minds from the sentence. Questions that may arise during and after reading Adams' article are: Do all prisons in the United States suggest and support a social order similar to what Adams discovered in Angola? Criticizing the way prisoners are treated as subordinates to outsiders, e.g