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The Infamous Alcatraz Escape of 1962

May 7, 2025

Alcatraz Escape: Overview

Background of Alcatraz

  • Alcatraz, also known as "The Rock," is a small island located in San Francisco Bay.
  • It served as a federal prison from 1934 to 1963.
  • Known for housing notorious criminals and was considered escape-proof due to its isolated location and strong security measures.

Famous Escape Attempts

  • Alcatraz was the site of numerous escape attempts, but the most famous occurred on June 11, 1962.
  • The escape involved Frank Morris, John Anglin, and Clarence Anglin.

Planning and Execution

  • The three inmates meticulously planned their escape over several months.
  • They used makeshift tools to dig holes in the walls of their cells.
  • Created lifelike dummy heads to place in their beds as decoys.
  • Constructed a raft from raincoats to aid their escape across the bay.

The Night of the Escape

  • On the night of June 11, the inmates made their way through the holes they dug into an unused service corridor.
  • They climbed to the roof and made their way to the water's edge.
  • The dummy heads fooled the guards during the night checks, delaying the discovery of their absence.

Aftermath and Manhunt

  • A massive manhunt ensued following the escape.
  • Despite extensive searches, the escapees were never found.
  • The FBI closed the case in December 1979, concluding they likely drowned in the bay.

Legacy

  • The escape from Alcatraz remains one of the most infamous prison escapes in history.
  • It has been the subject of books, documentaries, and films.
  • Continues to captivate the public's imagination and raise questions about the fate of the escapees.

Conclusion

  • Alcatraz remains a symbol of the challenges and intrigue surrounding prison escapes.
  • The 1962 escape attempt is a testament to the determination and ingenuity of the inmates involved.