The Gangs of New York: An Informal History of the Underworld
First edition cover
AuthorHerbert Asbury
CountryUnited States
LanguageEnglish
SubjectEarly 19th-early 20th century crime in New York City
Published1927
PublisherPublishing Company
Media typePrint
Pages400
OCLC8903814
364.106097471
LC ClassHV6439 .U7

The Gangs of New York: An Informal History of the Underworld is an American non-fiction book by Herbert Asbury, first published in 1927 by Garden City Publishing Company. It was the basis for Martin Scorsese's 2002 film Gangs of New York.

The novel's U.S. copyright expired on January 1, 2023, when all works published in 1927 entered the public domain.[1]

Description

The book details the rise and fall of 19th century gangs in New York City, prior to the domination of the Italian-American Mafia during Prohibition in the 1920s. Focusing on the saloon halls, gambling dens, and winding alleys of the Bowery and the Five Points district of Lower Manhattan, the book evokes the destitution and violence of a turbulent era, when colorfully named criminals like "Dandy" Johnny Dolan, William Poole (also known as Bill the Butcher), and Hell-Cat Maggie lurked in the shadows, and infamous gangs including the Plug Uglies, Dead Rabbits, and Bowery Boys ruled the streets. It includes a rogues' gallery of prostitutes, pimps, poisoners, pickpockets, murderers, and thieves.

The book contains detailed accounts of the New York City draft riots in 1863. It also elaborates on numerous other criminal influences of the time, including river pirates and the corrupt political establishment such as Tammany Hall.[2]

Adaptation

The book was loosely adapted into the epic historical drama film Gangs of New York (2002) by director Martin Scorsese. A television adaptation is in the works with Scorsese set to return as executive producer and director of the first two episodes. Brett C. Leonard is writing the series, which will be a new take with characters not included in the film.[3]

See also

References

  1. ↑ Schaub, Michael (December 20, 2022). "These Books Will Enter the Public Domain in 2023". Kirkus Reviews. Retrieved January 1, 2023.
  2. ↑ Asbury, Herbert (1927). The gangs of New York : an informal history of the underworld. Thunder's Mouth Press. ISBN 1560252758.
  3. ↑ Andreeva, Nellie (October 13, 2022). "'Gangs Of New York' TV Series In Works At Miramax With Writer Brett Leonard; Martin Scorsese To Direct". Deadline. Retrieved October 6, 2023.


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