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.