The establishment of Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary was a significant development in the American penal system. Before its transformation into a civilian prison, Alcatraz had functioned primarily as a military detention facility. The transition to a federal prison was spurred by the increasing need for a secure location to house serious criminals during a time of rising crime in the United States. Alcatraz, situated on an isolated island in San Francisco Bay, offered both geographical separation from mainland society and natural defenses against escape attempts.

On August 11, 1934, the prison opened its doors to the first group of 137 civilian inmates. These individuals were primarily chosen for their violent criminal histories, including notable mobsters and notorious offenders. The government's strategy was to utilize the island's isolation as a means of deterrence and reform. The arrival of these prisoners was just the beginning of a lengthy history filled with infamous escapades and notable characters, including Al Capone and Robert Stroud, the 'Birdman of Alcatraz.'

The prison was designed with a focus on strict discipline and routine, ensuring that the inmates would face challenging living conditions, which included solitary confinement as punishment for misbehavior. This harsh regime was meant to break the spirit of inmate resistance and prevent the possibility of escape. Over the years, Alcatraz became notorious for its tough conditions and as a setting for various escape attempts, which contributed to the lore surrounding the prison.

Alcatraz operated until 1963, when it was closed due to rising operational costs and the deteriorating condition of the facilities. Throughout its years of operation, Alcatraz held some of the most notorious criminals in American history and ultimately influenced discussions on prison reform and the treatment of inmates in the U.S.