Notorious bootlegger and racketeer who dominated organized crime in New York City during the 1920s and 1930s, infamous for his brutal tactics and flamboyant lifestyle.
Dutch Schultz, born Arthur Simon Flegenheimer, was a notorious American mobster who made his fortune in organized crime during the 1920s and 1930s in New York City. He was infamous for his involvement in bootlegging and the numbers racket, which earned him a significant amount of wealth and notoriety.
Schultz was born on August 6, 1901, to German Jewish immigrants Herman and Emma Neu Flegenheimer in Manhattan. After his father abandoned the family, Schultz was forced to drop out of school in the eighth grade to support himself and his mother. He worked various jobs, including as a feeder and pressman, before turning to a life of crime.
His criminal career began with burglary, and he was eventually caught and sent to prison on Blackwells Island (now Roosevelt Island). However, this experience did not deter him, and he continued to engage in criminal activities, including robbing craps games at a local nightclub.
Schultz's involvement in organized crime began in the 1920s, during the height of Prohibition. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a key figure in the New York City underworld. His illegal activities, including bootlegging and the numbers racket, earned him a significant amount of wealth and power.
However, his success was not without its challenges. Schultz faced opposition from other mobsters, including Lucky Luciano, and was eventually targeted by prosecutor Thomas Dewey. Dewey led two tax evasion trials against Schultz, which weakened his criminal empire and threatened his freedom.
In an attempt to avert his conviction, Schultz asked the Commission, a group of high-ranking mobsters, for permission to kill Dewey. When they refused, Schultz disobeyed them and made an attempt on Dewey's life. This decision proved to be fatal, as the Commission ordered his murder in 1935.
Schultz was shot at a restaurant in Newark, New Jersey, and died the next day. His death marked the end of an era in organized crime and the beginning of a new era of gangsterism in New York City.
Dutch Schultz's life and legacy continue to fascinate and intrigue. He is remembered as one of the most notorious mobsters of the 20th century, and his story has been immortalized in books, films, and popular culture.
Despite his criminal activities, Schultz's life serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of organized crime and the consequences of disobeying authority. His story also highlights the complexities of human nature, as Schultz was both a ruthless criminal and a loving son who cared deeply for his mother.
Dutch Schultz was known for his colorful language and memorable sayings. One of his most famous quotes is:
"I'm gonna get Dewey, and when I do, I'm gonna give him a better break than he gave me."
This quote not only highlights Schultz's determination to take down his enemy but also showcases his wit and charm.
Dutch Schultz's life was marked by both triumph and tragedy, but his legacy continues to captivate and inspire. His story serves as a reminder of the dangers of organized crime and the complexities of human nature.
Born in 1899
Notorious leader of a powerful organized crime syndicate during the Prohibition era, infamous for bootlegging and brutal tactics.
Born in 1897
Notorious Italian-American mob boss who established the modern American Mafia and shaped organized crime in the United States. He's known for his cunning and innovative approach to criminal enterprise.
Born in 1906
Notorious mobster and co-founder of Las Vegas, known for his ruthless tactics and instrumental role in developing the city's casino industry.
Born in 1902
Notorious organized crime figure and one of the most important figures in the history of American organized crime, known for his involvement in bootlegging, gambling, and murder.
Born in 1902
Notorious head of the Gambino crime family, known for his cunning and ruthless tactics in organized crime, particularly in New York City during the 1960s and 1970s.
Born in 1886
An Italian-American mob boss who founded the Five Families of New York City and established the modern Mafia hierarchy. He's infamous for his role in the Castellammarese War and his brutal tactics.
