This work includes pull-out case studies of the criminals, a typical day's regime for inmates, and stories from maximum security prisons gone bad, classic prison jargon. Real-life criminals and their punishment have always fascinated and are enduringly popular. By their nature, maximum security prisons are hidden places. This book reveals and exposes the workings and systems of these places - both official and unofficial. With over 70 pictures, the book takes an all-too-encompassing look at famous prisons from Sing Sing, Alcatraz and Spandau to third world jails.