The True Story Behind Boardwalk Empire: Uncovering the Dark History of Prohibition-Era Atlantic City
HBO’s critically acclaimed series, Boardwalk Empire, has captivated audiences with its gritty portrayal of the Prohibition era in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Based on the book "Boardwalk Empire: The Birth, High Times, and Corruption of Atlantic City" by Nelson Johnson, the show delves into the dark underbelly of the city’s criminal underworld, corrupt politicians, and the rise of organized crime during the 1920s and 1930s. But how much of the show is based on real events, and what secrets lie beneath the surface of this infamous city?
The Birth of Atlantic City
In the late 19th century, Atlantic City was a small, sleepy beach town on the Jersey Shore. However, with the introduction of the railroad in 1854, the city’s fortunes began to change. The construction of the Boardwalk, a 6-mile-long promenade along the beach, in 1870, further transformed Atlantic City into a popular resort destination. By the early 20th century, the city had become a hub for entertainment, nightlife, and, eventually, organized crime.
The Rise of Nucky Johnson
At the center of Boardwalk Empire is the fictional character of Nucky Thompson, played by Steve Buscemi. However, the show’s inspiration is rooted in the real-life figure of Enoch "Nucky" Johnson, a powerful Atlantic City politician and gangster who controlled the city’s illegal liquor trade during Prohibition. Johnson, a Democrat, served as the city’s sheriff from 1911 to 1916 and later as the Atlantic City mayor from 1916 to 1920. He was known for his corrupt dealings and his ability to maintain a delicate balance between the city’s law enforcement and the criminal underworld.
The Golden Age of Bootlegging
Prohibition, which went into effect in 1920, created a lucrative market for bootleggers, who smuggled illegal liquor into the United States. Atlantic City, with its strategic location and corrupt officials, became a major hub for the illegal liquor trade. Nucky Johnson, along with other gangsters, including Arnold Rothstein and Lucky Luciano, controlled the city’s illegal liquor trade, using their connections with politicians and law enforcement to maintain their power.
The Rise of Organized Crime
The Prohibition era also saw the rise of organized crime in Atlantic City. Gangs, such as the notorious Scarface gang, operated in the city, engaging in violent turf wars and extortion rackets. The city’s corrupt politicians and law enforcement officials often turned a blind eye to these activities, either out of fear or financial gain.
The Decline of Atlantic City
By the mid-1930s, Prohibition was repealed, and the illegal liquor trade began to decline. However, the damage had already been done. The city’s reputation had been tarnished by its association with organized crime, and many of its residents had become disillusioned with the corruption and violence that had plagued the city.
The Legacy of Boardwalk Empire
Boardwalk Empire, the TV series, has brought renewed attention to the dark history of Atlantic City during the Prohibition era. While the show takes creative liberties with the characters and events, it has sparked a renewed interest in the city’s history and the true story behind its rise and fall. The show’s success has also led to a surge in tourism to Atlantic City, with visitors drawn to the city’s rich history and the remnants of its once-thriving entertainment industry.
In conclusion, the true story behind Boardwalk Empire is one of corruption, violence, and the rise of organized crime in Atlantic City during the Prohibition era. While the show takes creative liberties with the characters and events, it has brought attention to the dark history of the city and the true story behind its rise and fall.