"But in America you can almost say... that they have reinvented the slave trade"

[bluesc]

I'm sure there are many more shocking statistics, but this video points some out that may explain a lot to you. Bear in mind this is on British state TV.

1% of all American adults in prison.

More blacks in prison than in college

Prison "workers" produce:
100% of all military helmets, ammo belts, vests, and other uniform
93% of all domestically produced paint
36% of home appliances
21% of office furniture

Yes it's from a comedy show, but it keeps it short.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...ImVVbI#t=1919s

[forliberty52]

I suppose that is a good point, someone has to keep making helmets for the soldiers overseas. The three strike law is tough, I thought is was based on repeat offenders like if you commit the same crime three times then it's life. At the same time I suppose it is better to give them something to do but why not educate instead of forcing manual labor. The prison system and the stipulations behind it is ridiculous and needs to be re-visited but honestly it seems to just get worse.