A knout is a type of whip or scourge that was historically used as a tool of corporal punishment in Russia. It was often used as a means of punishing political prisoners, criminals and slaves, and was notorious for its brutal and painful effects. In some cases, a single blow from the knout could be fatal. Its use was abolished in Russia in 1845.A knout is a whip or scourge that has a historical association with corporal punishment in Russia. This instrument was commonly employed to administer punishment to various groups, including political prisoners, criminals, and slaves. The knout was notorious for its brutal and painful effects, and in some instances, a single strike could be fatal.
The use of the knout was officially abolished in Russia in 1845, marking the end of its sanctioned role in the legal system. The knout's elimination was part of broader reforms aimed at mitigating the severity of corporal punishment in Russia.