In this updated encyclopedia are entries on virtually every capital punishment decision rendered by the U.S. Supreme Court from its inception through 2006, including summaries of more than 40 cases decided since publication of the first edition. Entries are also provided for each Supreme Court Justice who has ever rendered a capital punishment opinion. Entries on jurisdictions cite present-day death penalty laws and judicial structure, with synopses of common and unique features. Also included are entries on famous and lesser known U.S. capital prosecutions; organizations that support and oppose capital punishment; capital punishment's impact on persons of African, Asian, Hispanic, and Native American descent, on women, and on foreign nationals; and the various methods of execution.