Alcatraz: History and Design of a Landmark

Alcatraz is a small island located in San Francisco Bay, about 1.2 miles (1.9 km) offshore from San Francisco, California, United States. The island has been used as a military fortification, a federal prison, and a tourist attraction.

History

Alcatraz was first used as a military fortification in 1850, during the Mexican-American War. The island was chosen because of its strategic location, which allowed it to control the entrance to San Francisco Bay. In 1868, Alcatraz was transferred to the U.S. Army, which used it as a prison for military prisoners. In 1933, Alcatraz was transferred to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons, which used it as a federal prison for some of the most dangerous criminals in the United States.

Alcatraz: History and Design of a Landmark

by Donald MacDonald

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6931 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
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X-Ray	:	Enabled
Print length	:	193 pages
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Alcatraz was closed as a federal prison in 1963, and it was opened to the public as a tourist attraction in 1973. Today, Alcatraz is one of the most popular tourist attractions in San Francisco, and it is visited by over 1 million people each year.

Design

Alcatraz is a small island, with an area of just 22 acres (9 hectares). The island is made up of two main rock formations: a large, flat-topped rock on the west side of the island, and a smaller, more rugged rock on the east side of the island. The two rocks are connected by a narrow isthmus.

The buildings on Alcatraz were designed to be as secure as possible. The main prison building is a large, concrete structure with thick walls and barred windows. The prison also has a number of other security features, such as a guard tower, a moat, and a fence.

The design of Alcatraz has made it one of the most famous prisons in the world. The prison has been featured in numerous movies and television shows, and it has become a symbol of American justice.

Alcatraz is a fascinating island with a rich history and a unique design. The island has been used for a variety of purposes over the years, and it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in San Francisco. If you are ever in San Francisco, be sure to visit Alcatraz. It is a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

Images

Alcatraz: History and Design of a Landmark

by Donald MacDonald

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6931 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Print length	:	193 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE