Deep Dive
Why did Albert Johnson react so aggressively to the RCMP?
Johnson's aggressive reaction may be linked to his criminal past, possibly involving a bank robbery in North Dakota. His identity as Johnny Johnson, a criminal who escaped capture, suggests he had a history of evading the law, which could explain his violent response to the RCMP's inquiries about his trapping activities.
How did the RCMP initially respond to Albert Johnson's interference with local trappers' traps?
The RCMP initially sent two officers to Johnson's cabin to question him but left to obtain a search warrant when he refused to cooperate. They returned with more officers and a warrant, leading to the first confrontation where Johnson shot Constable King.
What unusual preparation did Albert Johnson make in his cabin to defend against the RCMP?
Johnson dug a trench near the floor of his cabin and drilled holes from which he could shoot at the RCMP, making it difficult for them to approach and attack him effectively.
How did the RCMP attempt to capture Albert Johnson after the first shooting incident?
After the first shooting, the RCMP surrounded Johnson's cabin and engaged in an 18-hour siege, using dynamite to blow up the cabin in an attempt to force him out.
What significant discovery did the RCMP make about Albert Johnson's identity after his death?
After Johnson's death, it was discovered that he was not actually named Albert Johnson. His true identity remained unknown, though theories linked him to a criminal named Johnny Johnson from North Dakota.
How did Albert Johnson manage to evade the RCMP for nearly five weeks?
Johnson's survival skills and knowledge of the terrain allowed him to evade capture. He traveled on foot, often using hard pack snow above creek beds to move quickly and hide his tracks, and set up multiple cover stations to ambush pursuers.
What role did William May play in the manhunt for Albert Johnson?
William May, a World War I flying ace, piloted a plane to scout large areas of the territory, helping to rule out false leads and provide aerial support to the ground team searching for Johnson.
What unusual physical characteristic did the forensic examination of Albert Johnson's remains reveal?
The examination revealed that Johnson had undergone sophisticated and expensive dental work for the period, which was unusual given his isolated lifestyle and the remote location where he lived.
Why did the RCMP and locals in Aklavik initially believe Albert Johnson's identity?
In the early 20th century, identity verification was not as rigorous as it is today, especially in remote regions. People took others at their word regarding their names and backgrounds, which is why Johnson's alias was initially accepted without question.
What was the final confrontation like between the RCMP and Albert Johnson?
The final confrontation occurred when Johnson was spotted by the RCMP and a shootout ensued. Johnson was shot seven times, with the fatal shot hitting his spine. The RCMP waited to confirm his death before approaching, having been tricked by him before.
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Shownotes Transcript