Al Capone Freed from Alcatraz: A Turning Point in Crime History

Al Capone's Release from Alcatraz

The Man Behind the Infamy: Al Capone

Al Capone, one of America’s most notorious gangsters, made headlines when he was released from Alcatraz prison on January 6, 1939. Capone, born on January 17, 1899, in Brooklyn, New York, rose to prominence during the Prohibition era as the head of the Chicago Outfit. His criminal operations included bootlegging, gambling, and murder, making him a symbol of organized crime in the United States.

A Life of Crime Leading to Imprisonment

Nicknamed "Scarface," Capone's reign was marked by violence and corruption. He was eventually convicted of tax evasion in 1931, which led to his sentencing to 11 years in federal prison. After serving a portion of this sentence, he was transferred to the infamous Alcatraz prison in 1934, where he would spend nearly five years.

The Legacy of Al Capone's Release

The Public's Fascination with Capone

Capone's release from Alcatraz was met with a mix of relief and fear by the public. Although he was no longer behind bars, the mobster still had a significant impact on organized crime and criminal enterprises across America. His story continues to fascinate historians and the public alike, symbolizing a bygone era of lawlessness.

Al Capone's Life After Alcatraz

After his release, Capone tried to leave his criminal past behind. He moved to Florida, where he spent the remainder of his life battling health problems related to syphilis. Despite his attempts to switch to a quieter life, his legacy of crime and corruption left an indelible mark on American history.

Fun Fact

Al Capone's Most Notorious Moment

One of the most infamous events associated with Capone was the St. Valentine's Day Massacre in 1929, where seven members of a rival gang were killed. This event underscored Capone's ruthless nature and solidified his status in the criminal underworld.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Al Capone

For those interested in learning more about Al Capone, I recommend the book "Capone: The Man and the Era" by Laurence Bergreen, which explores the life and times of the infamous gangster in great detail. Another engaging read is "Get Capone: The Secret Plot That Captured America's Most Wanted Gangster" by Jonathan Eig, which illuminates Capone's story from a different perspective.