The Purple Gang

Overview

The Purple Gang was a notorious criminal organization based in Detroit, Michigan during the Prohibition era. Known for their violent tactics and involvement in various illegal activities, the gang was primarily composed of Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe. They played a significant role in the illegal liquor trade and were involved in bootlegging, extortion, and murder.

Members of the Purple Gang

Formation and Early Activities

The Purple Gang was formed in the early 1920s by a group of young men from the Lower East Side of Detroit. The gang's name is believed to have originated from a comment made by a local shopkeeper who described them as "a bunch of purple" due to their violent nature. Initially, the gang engaged in petty crimes such as theft and robbery, but they quickly expanded their operations to include more lucrative ventures.

Prohibition Era

During the Prohibition era, the Purple Gang became heavily involved in the illegal liquor trade. They established connections with Canadian bootleggers and smuggled large quantities of alcohol across the Detroit River. Their control over the liquor market in Detroit allowed them to amass significant wealth and power.

Criminal Activities

The Purple Gang was notorious for their involvement in various criminal activities, including:

• Bootlegging: They controlled the smuggling and distribution of illegal alcohol in Detroit.
• Extortion: The gang extorted money from local businesses and individuals, using threats and violence to enforce their demands.
• Murder: They were involved in numerous murders, often targeting rival gang members and those who opposed their operations.

Decline and Disbandment

By the late 1920s, the Purple Gang's power began to wane due to internal conflicts and increased law enforcement efforts. Many members were arrested and convicted for their crimes, leading to the gang's eventual disbandment in the early 1930s. The decline of the Purple Gang marked the end of their dominance in Detroit's criminal underworld.

Legacy

The Purple Gang remains a significant part of Detroit's history, symbolizing the city's tumultuous past during the Prohibition era. Their story has been depicted in various films and books, highlighting their impact on organized crime in the United States.

Related pages

• Prohibition in the United States
• Organized crime
• Bootlegging
• Detroit