CRUCIFIXION

The practice of crucifixion as a form of execution (or impalement after death) dates back at least to the Persians, and was also utilized by other barbarian peoples (as they were known to Greek and Roman historiographers), including the Assyrians and, later, the Carthaginians.
(from Dictionary of Paul and His Letters © 1993 by InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA. All rights reserved.)