INTRO: George "Machine Gun Kelly" was one of the most infamous criminals of the early 20th century, whose exploits during the Prohibition era captured the imagination of the American public. His daring bank heists and flamboyant lifestyle made him a notorious figure in the world of organized crime. This article presents ten intriguing facts about his life, showcasing the man behind the legend.
George "Machine Gun Kelly" Was Born in 1895 in Memphis, TN
George Kelly Barnes, who would later be known as Machine Gun Kelly, was born on July 18, 1895, in Memphis, Tennessee. Raised in an upper-middle-class family, George was the son of a businessman and a schoolteacher. His early life was marked by an education that included attending the University of Alabama. However, as he transitioned to adulthood, he became disillusioned with a conventional lifestyle, leading him towards a life of crime that would eventually earn him infamy.
He Gained Infamy During the Prohibition Era of the 1920s
The Prohibition era, which lasted from 1920 to 1933, was a time when the sale of alcoholic beverages was outlawed in the United States. This created a fertile ground for organized crime, and George Kelly was quick to capitalize on the chaos. He became a significant player in the illegal liquor trade, which allowed him to amass wealth and notoriety. This period also saw the rise of gangsters who controlled territories and engaged in violent turf wars, further solidifying Kelly’s reputation as a criminal mastermind.
MGK’s Criminal Career Included Notorious Bank Heists
Machine Gun Kelly is perhaps best known for his audacious bank heists, which he executed with a flair for drama and violence. His most famous heist occurred in 1933 when he and his gang robbed a bank in Oklahoma, making off with a substantial sum of money. These bank robberies not only showcased his skills in orchestrating high-stakes crime but also highlighted the risks he was willing to take. His criminal activities were often marked by extreme violence, which contributed to his growing notoriety in the underworld.
He Was Nicknamed "Machine Gun" for His Weapon of Choice
The moniker "Machine Gun" was not just a catchy nickname; it reflected Kelly’s weapon of choice during his criminal escapades. He became infamous for his use of a Thompson submachine gun, a firearm that epitomized the violent gangland culture of the time. This weapon allowed him to intimidate his victims and engage in shootouts with law enforcement, further enhancing his fearsome reputation. The association with such a potent firearm eventually became a part of his identity, solidifying his place in the annals of American crime history.
Kelly Was Sentenced to Life in Prison for His Crimes
In 1933, after a series of violent crimes and his notorious bank heist, Machine Gun Kelly was arrested and later convicted. He was sentenced to life in prison, a punishment that reflected the severity of his actions and the threat he posed to society. His incarceration was not merely a consequence of his criminal acts but also a turning point in his life. It marked the end of his reign as a major criminal figure but allowed him to become a symbol of the lawlessness of the Prohibition era.
He Was a Member of an Infamous Chicago Crime Syndicate
During his criminal career, Machine Gun Kelly was linked to several organized crime syndicates, including the notorious Chicago Outfit. This organization was led by infamous mobsters like Al Capone, and Kelly’s association with them allowed him to gain access to a network of criminals who facilitated his illegal activities. Being part of such a powerful syndicate provided him with resources and protection, which played a crucial role in his successful criminal enterprises.
Machine Gun Kelly’s Life Inspired Movies and Literature
The life and crimes of Machine Gun Kelly have captured the imaginations of filmmakers and authors alike. His story has been depicted in numerous films, television shows, and books, often glamorizing his persona as a notorious gangster. The most notable adaptation is the 1958 film "Machine-Gun Kelly," which explored his life of crime and the sociopolitical context of the time. These portrayals have contributed to the mythos surrounding Kelly and perpetuated his legacy as a quintessential American outlaw.
He Married a Notorious Female Gangster, Kathryn Kelly
In 1927, Machine Gun Kelly married Kathryn "Kitty" Kelly, who was also deeply entrenched in the criminal underworld. Kitty was known for her formidable personality and played an active role in her husband’s criminal endeavors. Their partnership was marked by mutual support in their illegal activities, and together, they became a notorious couple in the annals of crime. Kathryn’s involvement in Kelly’s life added another layer to his criminal persona, and their relationship became a subject of fascination in crime lore.
Kelly Attempted to Escape Prison but Was Recaptured
During his time in prison, Machine Gun Kelly made a desperate attempt to escape in 1943. This bold move aimed to reclaim his freedom and resume his life of crime. However, his escape plan was thwarted, and he was quickly recaptured. This incident highlighted the lengths to which he would go to regain his status as a free man and reinforced his reputation as a relentless and determined criminal. The failed escape attempt served as a reminder of the elusive nature of freedom for someone entrenched in a life of crime.
He Died in 1954, Leaving a Lasting Criminal Legacy
George "Machine Gun Kelly" Barnes died on July 18, 1954, in a federal prison in Leavenworth, Kansas. His death marked the end of a tumultuous life filled with crime and notoriety. However, his legacy endured long after his passing, as he became an enduring symbol of the Prohibition era and the gangland violence that characterized it. Kelly’s story continues to be referenced in popular culture, serving as a cautionary tale about the allure of crime and its inevitable consequences.
OUTRO: Machine Gun Kelly’s life remains a fascinating chapter in American criminal history. His rise and fall serve as a reminder of the turbulent times of the Prohibition era and the individuals who sought to exploit the chaos for personal gain. As both a criminal and a cultural icon, his legacy continues to provoke interest and debate, ensuring that George "Machine Gun Kelly" will not be forgotten.