Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary was established in 1934 and quickly became known for its strict discipline and high-profile inmates. It was designed to house the most dangerous criminals who could not be controlled in other prisons. Over the years, it housed infamous gangsters and criminals, making it a symbol of law enforcement and a deterrent to criminal behavior. However, by the early 1960s, the prison faced significant issues. The aging infrastructure was in disrepair, and its isolated location made it costly to operate. Rising operational costs and a shift in American criminal justice philosophy prompted discussions about the facility's future.

The decision to close Alcatraz was officially made by the U.S. Department of Justice. It was announced in 1963 that the inmates would be transferred to other facilities or released. Following its closure, much of the equipment and furnishings were auctioned off or left behind, solidifying the prison as a relic of its past. The last inmates were moved to the mainland to serve their sentences in more modern facilities.

After the closure, Alcatraz Island became a deserted landmark. However, in the years that followed, it garnered interest as a historical site. This growth of popularity eventually led to the establishment of Alcatraz as a National Historic Landmark in 1976. Today, it serves as a tourist attraction, with thousands visiting each year to explore its haunting corridors and learn about its infamous history.