Gregg v. Georgia (1976)

The Court decided that the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition on cruel and unusual punishments did not render death sentences unconstitutional. Georgia’s law imposing the death penalty under very specific circumstances and guidelines was held constitutional. The death penalty “does not invariably violate the Constitution.” The judicious and careful use of the penalty was justified in that it met contemporary standards of society, served as a deterrent, and was not randomly applied.

The case touched on constitutional principles including due process, and civic values including moderation and justice.