Public executions were events where individuals sentenced to death were executed in front of an audience. These events served as a form of punishment and deterrence, often taking place in public squares or other open areas. The methods of execution varied widely, including hanging, beheading, and burning, depending on the laws and customs of the time. Historically, public executions were common in many societies, including during the reign of King Henry VIII in England and the French Revolution. They were intended to reinforce the power of the state and instill fear in the populace. Over time, public executions became less common due to changing attitudes toward punishment and human rights.