Electric chair

The electric chair was a device usually used for execution of convicted criminals during the 20th century in the USA. It was first used in the late 19th century. It was used by more than 25 states throughout the 20th century, acquiring nicknames such as Sizzlin' Sally, Old Smokey, Old Sparky, Yellow Mama, and Gruesome Gertie. To be put to death in an electric chair is colloquially known as "riding the lightning." Its sustained use in the 21st century seems to be rapidly on the way out. The electric chair was also used, for a time, in the Philippines.