Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island, located 1.25 miles off the coast of Tiburon, California, is home to one of America's most notorious former island prisons. The island, which was originally a military fort in the 1850s, was converted into a federal penitentiary in 1934 and operated until 1963.

Its most famous prisoners included Al Capone and Robert Stroud, better known as the "Birdman of Alcatraz." Now, Alcatraz Island is a popular tourist destination, attracting over one million visitors each year. Visitors can take a short ferry ride from San Francisco to the island to explore the former prison and learn about its history through self-guided audio tours.

In addition to its history as a prison, Alcatraz Island also has a rich natural and cultural history. It is home to diverse plant and animal species, including a rare population of Californian wall lizards. The island also has a significant role in Native American history, as it was the site of a 19-month occupation by a group of Native American activists in 1969-1971, which ultimately led to the establishment of a Native American education and cultural center on the island. Alcatraz Island offers a unique and educational experience for tourists and visitors, providing insight into both its infamous past as a prison and its cultural and ecological significance.

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