Attica Prison riot facts for kids
The Attica Prison uprising, also known as the Attica Prison rebellion, was a major event that happened at the Attica Correctional Facility in Attica, New York, United States, in 1971. It was a powerful protest where people held in prison demanded better living conditions and more rights. This uprising became one of the most important moments in the movement for prisoners' rights.
Contents
What Happened at Attica Prison?
On September 9, 1971, a big protest started at Attica Prison. This was about two weeks after another event where a person named George Jackson died at San Quentin State Prison. At Attica, 1,281 of the prison's roughly 2,200 people took control of the prison. They also took 42 prison staff members as hostages.
Why Did the Uprising Start?
The people in prison were unhappy with their living conditions. They felt they didn't have enough rights. They wanted things to be fairer and safer inside the prison. Their protest was a way to make their voices heard and ask for important changes.
How Did the Negotiations Go?
For the next four days, leaders from the prison and government talked with the people protesting. They tried to find a solution. The authorities agreed to almost all of the 28 demands made by the people in prison. However, there was one big disagreement: the authorities would not agree to let everyone involved avoid any legal trouble for taking over the prison.
How Did the Uprising End?
Because an agreement couldn't be reached on all points, the governor of New York at the time, Nelson Rockefeller, gave an order. State police then moved in to take back control of the prison. When the uprising was finally over, many lives were lost. At least 43 people died, including ten prison officers and other staff members, and 33 people who were in prison.
See also
In Spanish: Rebelión de los prisioneros de la cárcel de Attica para niños
