On September 22, 1776. 21 year old Nathan Hale was hanged. He asked for a Bible and a for clergyman. Both were refused. The only man who wrote down his last words may have heard it was a hoax. General William Howe said spies do not receive courtesies.
Most officers considered spying to be dirty work, beneath any gentleman's honor. Capture meant death without trial. He was executed and got a statute.
Also On This Day...
1862: Lincoln Turns the War Against Slavery Itself
1692: Salem Hangs Eight on Its Final Day of Execution
1975: Sara Jane Moore Shoots at President Ford and Misses
1980: Iraqi Armor Crosses the Iranian Border
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