The Most Famous Black Gangster, Ranked

Choose the black gangster you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jul 26, 2024 07:32
Understanding the impact of notorious figures in history can provide insights into various social, economic, and cultural dynamics. By focusing on prominent black gangsters, this list aims to shed light on their influence within communities and the broader cultural landscape. These figures have carved indelible marks on history, often blending infamy with complex narratives of survival and entrepreneurship. By participating in this ranking, users can contribute their perspectives on who stands out most among these historical figures. The interactive nature of this ranking allows for a dynamic reassessment of each figure’s impact and legacy based on public perception and votes. This approach not only informs new audiences but also promotes a nuanced understanding of their roles in shaping their environments.

Who Is the Most Famous Black Gangster?

  1. 1
    49
    points

    Frank Lucas

    An American drug trafficker famous for operating in Harlem during the late 1960s and early 1970s.
    • Notorious Act: Creating the 'Golden Triangle' connection to import heroin into the United States.
  2. 2
    15
    points

    Larry Hoover

    Leader of the Gangster Disciples in Chicago, known for his attempts to enter politics.
    • Political Movement: Founded the 'Growth and Development' movement to clean up the gang's image.
  3. 3
    11
    points

    Felix Mitchell

    Leader of the '69 Mob' in Oakland, California, influential in the heroin trade.
    • Legacy: His funeral procession included a horse-drawn carriage and a brass band, showcasing his influence.
  4. 4
    5
    points
    Demetrius 'Big Meech' Flenory

    Demetrius 'Big Meech' Flenory

    Co-founder of the Black Mafia Family, a drug trafficking and money laundering organization.
    • Significant Achievement: Establishing a nationwide drug distribution network.
  5. 5
    3
    points

    Wayne Perry

    A hitman from Washington D.C., associated with the drug dealer Alpo Martinez, known for his ruthless violence.
    • Reputation: Feared throughout the capital for his enforcement activities.
  6. 6
    1
    points

    Rayful Edmond

    A drug dealer in Washington D.C. during the 1980s, credited with introducing crack cocaine to the city.
    • Drug Empire: His operations drastically increased the city's murder rate during the crack epidemic.
  7. 7
    1
    points
    Kenneth 'Supreme' McGriff

    Kenneth 'Supreme' McGriff

    Leader of the Supreme Team, a major drug trafficking organization in Queens, New York.
    • Criminal Activities: Involved in drug trafficking, murder, and connections to the music industry.
  8. 8
    0
    points
    Stanley 'Tookie' Williams

    Stanley 'Tookie' Williams

    Co-founder of the Crips gang in Los Angeles, California.
    • Redemption Act: Writing children's books and campaigning against gang violence from prison.
  9. 9
    0
    points

    Jeff Fort

    Leader of the Black P. Stones, later transformed into the El Rukn tribe, a notorious Chicago gang.
    • Notable Crime: Convicted for conspiring with Libya to perform acts of domestic terrorism.
  10. 10
    0
    points

    Leroy 'Nicky' Barnes

    A powerful drug lord from Harlem, known as 'Mr. Untouchable'.
    • Major Crime: Leading the notorious 'Council' which controlled the heroin trade.

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous black gangster. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or gangster is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 3417 views
  • 86 votes
  • 10 ranked items

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Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each gangster once every 24 hours. The rank of each gangster is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More about the Most Famous Black Gangster

In the early 20th century, the United States saw the rise of organized crime. Many black gangsters emerged during this time. These figures often came from poor backgrounds. They sought power and wealth through crime. They became legends in their communities and beyond.

Prohibition played a key role in their rise. The ban on alcohol created a lucrative black market. Many black gangsters saw an opportunity. They started bootlegging operations. They smuggled and sold alcohol. This brought them significant profits. It also brought them into conflict with the law and rival gangs.

These gangsters did not work alone. They built networks of loyal followers. They often recruited from their own neighborhoods. These networks helped them expand their operations. They also provided protection. Loyalty was crucial in their world. Betrayal often led to violent retribution.

Violence was a common tool for these gangsters. They used it to enforce their will. They also used it to settle disputes. Shootouts and assassinations were not uncommon. This violence added to their notoriety. It also made them feared figures.

Despite their criminal activities, some black gangsters gained respect. They often gave back to their communities. They provided jobs and financial support. They also funded social programs. This earned them a level of admiration. It also helped them maintain control.

Law enforcement struggled to contain these gangsters. Corruption was widespread. Many police officers and officials were on the take. This made it difficult to prosecute them. Even when arrested, they often escaped justice. Bribes and threats were common tactics.

The end of Prohibition did not end their influence. Many black gangsters diversified their operations. They moved into other illegal activities. Drug trafficking became a major focus. They also engaged in gambling and prostitution. These ventures kept their empires intact.

The media played a role in their legend. Newspapers and radio often sensationalized their exploits. This added to their mystique. It also made them household names. Their stories were the subject of books and films. This ensured their legacy endured.

In conclusion, black gangsters of the early 20th century left a lasting mark. They rose from poverty to power. They built criminal empires. They became legends in their own time. Their influence extended beyond their criminal activities. They shaped the communities they came from. Their stories continue to fascinate and inspire.

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