The history of Alcatraz began after the departure of the Spanish colonists, when the government of the young United States transformed the island into a fortress. During the Civil War, more than 100 cannons and 400 soldiers were stationed there. In 1909, it became a military prison for war deserters and "unfriendly" Amerindians. It changed function for the last time in 1934 to become a state penitentiary, a high-security prison for the most dangerous criminals.
Did you know that? Alcatraz was given its name during the period of Spanish colonisation. In fact, that's what the Spanish called the many pelicans in the bay! However, the word "alcatraz" refers to the gannet, a bird typical of the North Atlantic coastline.