Yesterday I shared with you the new series in the UK called Peaky Blinders. The show is loosely based on the notorious 1920's gang from Birmingham, England. Today I wanted to share with you a bit about the real Peak Blinders.
The gang earned its chilling nickname through the practice of sewing razor blades into the peaks of their flat caps, so that they could blind rival gangsters by headbutting them. They ruled the industrialized areas of Bordesley and Small Heath from the 1880's through to the early 1900's, when the city was one of the world's most important manufacturing hubs.
Although they had a reputation of committing terrible crimes, they also dabbled in petty crimes like stealing a bicycle or breaking into a shop near they homes. They actually build their empire on illegal betting, protection rackets, and Birmingham's black market.
I found a wonderful article about them if you would like to read even more about this infamous gang, HERE.
What do you think of these neat photos? When I find old photos I am always grateful someone was around to take photos. Because of them we get to see a glimpse into the past. The Peaky Blinders Season Two is now available in the UK.
Wow. Those are indeed great photos, and I enjoyed reading more about the gangs. I can't get past those young faces though. They don't even look as old as 12 or 13 to me!
ReplyDelete