Prisons: The History Of Alcatraz Prison

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The History of Alcatraz Prison Alcatraz is a very interesting prison that has been closed for years but still manages to fascinate millions of tourist every year. Alcatraz is an island located in the middle of San Francisco bay. In 1775 Spanish explorer Juan Manuel de Ayala named and mapped the island: “La Isla los Alcatraces” or the island of the pelicans. In the 1850’s a fortress was constructed and some 100 cannons were installed to protect San Francisco bay. Also in the 1850’s Alcatraz become home to the first operational lighthouse. From 1934-1963, Alcatraz was Americas premier maximum security prison. The highest number of prisoners ever recorded to stay in Alcatraz was 302. The lowest number was 222. Alcatraz was capable of holding

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