Anode-shorted GTO thyristor samples were investigated by means of the free-carrier absorption (FCA) technique. Both the turn-on and turn-off processes were investigated as regards the two-dimensional carrier distribution for different stages of the transient cycles. The results are presented as carrier-map sequences, i.e., 3-D pictures of measured 2-D carrier distributions. Samples were formed as unit segments cut out from large-area devices, and associated with different degree of anode shorting, silicon thickness, and lifetime treatment. During investigation, the samples were inductively anode loaded, and as regards the turnoff process they were operated near the safe-operation limit. The measurements clearly illustrate the way carriers are transported in the sample when firing the device, and the turn-on process is visualized in steps by means of carrier-map sequences. These measurements are supported by computer simulations. The turn-off process is also visualized in carrier-map sequences measured from two perpendicular directions, and the maps show the critical electric-field expansion which always precedes a turnoff failure due to dynamic breakdown mechanisms. Further on, the effect of design-parameter variations, e.g., anode shorting pattern and carrier lifetime reductions, on destructive GTO turnoff phenomena are discussed.