Why is tom given the death sentence?

Tom is given the death sentence primarily because he is wrongfully convicted of a crime he did not commit, reflecting the racial injustices and societal prejudices of the time. In "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, his trial exemplifies the deep-rooted racism in the legal system, where evidence and truth are overshadowed by the color of his skin. Ultimately, his sentencing highlights the tragic consequences of discrimination and the failures of justice.