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Witness History: The Attica Prison Rebellion

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The Attica Prison Rebellion

28/09/2016 GMT

BBC World Service - Witness History, The Attica Prison Rebellion

In 1971 inmates rioted and seized control of the US jail, taking guards hostage

In 1971 inmates rioted and seized control of the US jail, taking guards hostage. The authorities stormed the prison, dropping tear gas from helicopters and firing live rounds.

In 1971 inmates at Attica maximum security facility in New York State rioted and seized control of the jail, taking guards hostage. When negotiations failed, the authorities stormed the prison, dropping tear gas from helicopters and firing hundreds of live rounds. At least 39 people were killed, including nine of the hostages. Former prisoner, Carlos Roche, spoke to Rebecca Kesby and described the chaos. This programme was first broadcast in 2013.

(Photo: Rioting Inmates at the Attica maximum security facility, New York State Credit: AP)

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