Gangster facts for kids

Mugshot of Bugsy Siegel

A gangster is a person who is part of a criminal group, often called a gang. These groups work together to do illegal things. The words "gangster" and "mobster" are often used to describe members of crime groups, especially those from a time in American history called Prohibition. During Prohibition, it was illegal to make or sell alcohol. This led to many gangs becoming powerful by controlling the illegal alcohol trade. Some famous examples of such groups include the Chicago Outfit and the Five Families.

A gang is simply a group of people who come together and share a common goal or identity, often involved in illegal activities. Long ago, the word "gang" could even mean a group of workers. In some places like the United Kingdom, it can still be used that way today.

What is a Gangster?

Gangsters are individuals who belong to organized crime groups. These groups often have strict rules and a clear leader. They might be involved in various illegal activities to make money. Unlike individual criminals, gangsters are part of a larger network that plans and carries out crimes together.

How Gangs Operate

Gangs often operate like a business, but an illegal one. They might control certain areas or types of crime. Members usually have specific roles, and they work together to achieve their goals. Loyalty to the gang is often very important. If someone breaks the rules, there can be serious consequences.

Famous Gangster Groups

Throughout history, different types of gangster groups have existed around the world.

• The Mafia: This is a well-known type of organized crime group that started in Sicily, Italy. Over time, branches of the Mafia also formed in the United States. These groups became very powerful, especially during the Prohibition era.
• Yakuza: These are traditional organized crime groups from Japan. They are known for their strict codes of conduct and often elaborate tattoos.
• Triads: These are Chinese organized crime groups. They have a long history and are involved in many different illegal activities across the globe.

Gangsters in Popular Culture

Gangsters have often been shown in movies, TV shows, and books. These stories sometimes make gangsters seem exciting or powerful. However, it's important to remember that in real life, being a gangster involves serious criminal activities and often leads to dangerous outcomes. Actors like Edward G. Robinson became famous for playing gangster roles in early American movies. These films helped shape how people thought about gangsters.

Images for kids

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  Yakuza or Japanese mafia, are not allowed to show their tattoos in public except during the Sanja Matsuri festival.

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  Sketch of the 1901 maxi trial of suspected mafiosi in Palermo. From the newspaper L'Ora, May 1901

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  Du Yuesheng (1888–1951), a Chinese gangster and important Kuomintang supporter who spent much of his life in Shanghai

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  Actor Edward G. Robinson starred in several American gangster movies

See also

In Spanish: Gánster para niños