New York City Street Gangs: From the 1960s to the Present

Are There Any NYC-Based Street Gangs of the 1960-70s That Are Still Active to This Day?

Introduction

New York City has a rich and often troubling history of street gangs. Many of the names that come to mind are steeped in the iconic drama and violence of movies like The West Side Story, where the sensationalized clash between the Jets and the Sharks captured the public imagination in the 1960s. But were these gangs just a figment of Hollywood's imagination, or are they still active to this day?

The Jets and the Sharks

Indeed, the Jets and the Sharks are still quite active. In fact, recent developments include the release of a documentary film in December that delves deeper into the lives of these street gangs. According to reports, both gangs continue to thrive in the same neighborhoods, although their activities and dynamics have undoubtedly evolved over the decades.

The Legacy of the 1960s and 1970s

The legacy of the 1960s and 1970s in New York City is complex. While the fictional representation in The West Side Story may have simplified the reality, the core themes of gang violence, displacement, and social inequality persist. This period saw a significant transformation in street gang culture, driven by the Civil Rights movement, urban renewal, and social changes that reshaped the American landscape.

The Mafia: A Persistent Force in New York City

While the street gangs like the Jets and the Sharks continue to make headlines, another significant player in the New York City underworld is the Mafia. The Mafia or organized crime syndicates are a crucial aspect of the city's history and continue to operate in various forms to this day. Many individuals and organizations that were part of the underworld during the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s have either ascended to positions of power within the mafia or have left the scene.

Modern Mafia Organizations in New York City

One of the key reasons why the Mafia remains relevant is its deep-rooted ties to legitimate businesses and politics. The mafia has historically used their wealth and influence to penetrate various sectors of the economy, from construction to restaurants, and even in the political arena. Many of the individuals who were part of the New York City Mafia in the early 20th century have had their fingerprints on everything from major construction projects to local politics. As such, the legacy of the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s continues to shape the city's cultural and economic landscape.

Conclusion

From the iconic street gangs of the 1960s to the enduring influence of the mafia, New York City's underworld has remained a powerful force in the city's history. While the fictional portrayal in The West Side Story often romanticizes these gangs, the real world of street crime and organized crime remains a critical aspect of the city's social and economic reality. The Jets, the Sharks, and themafia are not merely figures from the past—they are part of the present, continuing to shape New York City's complex and often turbulent socio-economic landscape.