The Pennsylvania system was a prison reform model developed in the early 19th century, primarily at the Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia. It emphasized solitary confinement as a means of rehabilitation, allowing inmates to reflect on their crimes and reform their behavior. This system aimed to reduce recidivism by providing a quiet environment for contemplation and moral improvement. Under the Pennsylvania system, prisoners were kept in individual cells and had limited interaction with others. This approach was based on the belief that isolation would lead to personal transformation. However, it faced criticism for its psychological effects on inmates, leading to the eventual adoption of alternative prison models.