Gangs of New York is a Martin Scorsese directorial set in the mid-19th century and revolves around a conflict between nativist Protestants and Irish Catholic Immigrants. The movie features political corruption, gang rivalries, and the harsh lives of immigrants. So, is Gangs of New York based on a true story, and are there any true events and facts layered between the narrative?
Is Gangs of New York based on a true story?
Gangs of New York is loosely based on a true story, and it is not a strictly factual retelling of historical events but rather a work of historical fiction that draws inspiration from actual events. Scorsese was inspired to make the movie after he came across Herbert Asbury’s eponymous novel. The depiction of Civil War draft riots and the animosity between nativist groups and immigrants is rooted in realism. So, the film does capture the essence of the period, and combines fictional storytelling with it, to portray the challenges faced by different communities in the evolving landscape of 1860s New York.
Gangs of New York’s real events and facts explained
One of the central historical events depicted in Gangs of New York is the New York City Draft Riots of July 1863. In the real protests, working-class individuals were violent, including the immigrants, and there was a perceived preferential treatment for the wealthier citizens. The movie is set in the Five Points district of New York, a real neighborhood in Lower Manhattan during the mid-19th century. It also touches upon the political corruption of that era, through the character of William “Boss” Tweed.
Moreover, Tammany Hall, the Democratic Party machine notorious for its corruption, also appears in Gangs of New York and was a real political force in 19th-century New York. All the specific gangs and characters are fictional in the film, but the movie does capture the essence of gang culture and turf wars that were the norm in Five Points. Gangs like the Bowery Boys and Dead Rabbits are inspired by real historical gangs that existed in that era. There’s also a portrayal of the stark socio-economic disparities of the time, focusing on the struggles of impoverished communities that had to face the might of rapid urbanization and industrialization.
The real people behind Gangs of New York’s characters
Gangs of New York features a mix of fictional characters and historical figures, and the central characters represent archetypes inspired by the socio-political dynamics of the bygone era. Needless to say, the movie masterfully intertwines fictional characters with historical inspiration and creates a gripping narrative that captures the essence of the tumultuous period.
Is Amsterdam Vallon a real person?
Amsterdam Vallon is a fictional character and his storyline revolves around seeking revenge in the Five Points district against Bill the Butcher for his father’s death. He’s an Irish immigrant and goes through many hardships and discrimination that were common in that era.
Is Bill the Butcher a real person?
Bill the Butcher is a character inspired by the real-life historical figure, William Poole. William was a member of the nativist Know Nothing political movement who led the Bowery Boys gang. The film does take creative liberties in crafting his character, but Bill the Butcher draws inspiration from William’s reputation as a street brawler who allegedly had involvement in gang conflicts and politics.
