Once Public Enemy No. 1, Al Capone became Prisoner 85 at Alcatraz in 1934. During his time there, the infamous mob boss embraced a different lifestyle, engaging in reading and music. As a model prisoner, he kept a low profile, doing his chores and avoiding violence unless provoked.
Capone appeared to mend his ways during his stay on Alcatraz—at least temporarily.
After the prison closed in 1963, reclaiming and repurposing Alcatraz became a rallying cry for American Indians, many of whom viewed the island as a symbol of government indifference toward the Indigenous population.
For 19 months beginning in 1969, they did just that.
The Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon, an annual event started in 1980, challenges participants to swim 1.5 miles from Alcatraz to San Francisco, showcasing that it is possible to make the journey from the notorious island. Read more.
Alcatraz Week begins October 20 on HISTORY Vault! All week long, HISTORY Vault is exploring America’s most famous prison with commercial-free series and documentaries that take you to “The Rock.”
Start watching Inside Alcatraz: Legends of the Rock, Alcatraz Escape: The Lost Evidence, History's Greatest Escapes With Morgan Freeman and more now.
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