Dan Snow's History Hit The History of Alcatraz
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May 8, 2025 Jolene Babyak, a historian of Alcatraz and author of 'Breaking The Rock', shares her unique perspective on the notorious prison where she once lived. She discusses the infamous 1962 escape attempt by Frank Morris and the Anglin brothers, detailing their elaborate planning and daring execution. Babyak also reveals the contrasting childhood experiences of families on the island, living alongside notorious criminals like Al Capone. The conversation dives into the prison's legacy, its maximum-security reputation, and the lasting allure of Alcatraz.
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1962 Escape: A Personal Memory
- Jolene Babyak recalls the 1962 escape attempt vividly, waking up to sirens at age 15.
- Her father was acting warden during that stressful event, adding personal tension to the escape.
Origin and Military Role
- Alcatraz was named by Spanish explorers in 1775 as 'Island of the Really Big Dirty Birds.'
- Its military use began around 1859 as a fort to defend San Francisco from potential foreign threats.
Alcatraz and Federal Crime Laws
- The rise of federal laws against bootlegging and interstate crime led to Alcatraz becoming a federal prison in 1934.
- Automobiles and machine guns after World War I changed criminals' mobility and violence, spurring Federal Bureau of Investigation effectiveness.
