Alcatraz Island

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Alcatraz Island is a small island located in San Francisco Bay, California, United States. It is best known for its history as a federal prison, but it has also served as a military fortification and a site of a Native American occupation. The island is now a popular tourist destination and part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

History[edit | edit source]

Early History[edit | edit source]

Alcatraz Island was originally named "La Isla de los Alcatraces" by Spanish explorer Juan Manuel de Ayala in 1775. The name translates to "Island of the Pelicans," reflecting the large population of seabirds that inhabited the island.

Military Fortification[edit | edit source]

In 1850, President Millard Fillmore ordered that Alcatraz Island be set aside for military use. By the late 1850s, the island was fortified with cannons and other defenses to protect the San Francisco Bay from potential invaders. During the American Civil War, the island served as a military prison for Confederate sympathizers and other prisoners.

Federal Penitentiary[edit | edit source]

In 1934, Alcatraz was converted into a federal penitentiary. The prison was designed to hold the most dangerous criminals, including notorious figures such as Al Capone, George "Machine Gun" Kelly, and Robert Stroud, also known as the "Birdman of Alcatraz." The prison was known for its harsh conditions and its reputation as an inescapable fortress due to the cold, strong currents of the surrounding waters.

Native American Occupation[edit | edit source]

In 1969, a group of Native American activists occupied Alcatraz Island, claiming it as Indian land under the Treaty of Fort Laramie. The occupation lasted for 19 months and brought national attention to the issues of Native American rights and sovereignty.

National Park[edit | edit source]

In 1972, Alcatraz Island became part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The island is now managed by the National Park Service and is open to the public for tours. Visitors can explore the remains of the prison, the military fortifications, and the natural features of the island.

Geography and Climate[edit | edit source]

Alcatraz Island is located 1.25 miles (2.01 km) offshore from San Francisco, California. The island covers an area of 22 acres (8.9 ha) and has a rocky terrain. The climate is characterized by cool, foggy summers and mild, wet winters.

Flora and Fauna[edit | edit source]

The island is home to a variety of plant and animal species. The gardens on Alcatraz, originally planted by the military and prison staff, have been restored and are maintained by volunteers. The island is also a nesting site for several species of seabirds, including Western Gulls, Brandt's Cormorants, and Pigeon Guillemots.

Tourism[edit | edit source]

Alcatraz Island is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the San Francisco Bay Area. Visitors can take guided tours of the prison, explore the island's natural features, and learn about its history through exhibits and presentations. The island is accessible by ferry from Pier 33 in San Francisco.