The Gangs of New York

For the 2002 film and similarly named topics, see Gangs of New York (disambiguation).

The Gangs of New York: An Informal History of the Underworld is an American non-fiction book by Herbert Asbury, first published in 1928 by Alfred A. Knopf. It was the basis for Martin Scorsese's 2002 film Gangs of New York.

The Gangs of New York: An Informal History of the Underworld

First edition cover
Author	Herbert Asbury
Language	English
Subject	Early 19th-early 20th century crime in New York City
Published	1928
Publisher	Alfred A. Knopf
Publication place	United States
Media type	Print
Pages	400
OCLC	8903814
Dewey Decimal	364.106097471
LC Class	HV6439 .U7

Asbury published an article, "The Old-Time Gangs of New York", in The American Mercury in 1927, which was incorporated into the book published the following year.

Description

Further information: List of identities in The Gangs of New York (book)

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.

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.

See also

• Books about New York City
• History of New York City
• List of non-fiction works made into feature films

External links

• Full text of The Gangs of New York at HathiTrust Digital Library
• The Gangs of New York in libraries (WorldCat catalog)
• Comparison of the book and movie at herbertasbury.com