I’ve decided to take a short break from my gorgeous actress obsession, to move on to my old school crime obsession. I know, I’m crazy, but I have this serious fascination with gangsters and criminals of the 20’s-50’s. I don’t know what it is exactly, but I think it has something to do with the fact that the F.B.I. hadn’t really been set up properly (if at all) yet, and criminals were often supported by the general public. Many of you might have seen the movie “Public Enemies” with Johnny Depp over the summer. The film followed the life and criminal career of John Dillinger. Although he stole, murdered, etc., many of the public supported him, even hiding him at times, acting as though he was some type of Robin Hood figure during the Great Depression.
The first criminal pair I’m going to examine is the infamous Bonnie and Clyde. Clyde Barrow and Bonnie Parker met in Texas in 1930. “Bonnie was 19 and married to an imprisoned murderer; Clyde was 21 and unmarried. Soon after, he was arrested for a burglary and sent to jail. He escaped, using a gun Bonnie had smuggled to him, was recaptured, and was sent back to prison. Clyde was paroled in February, 1932, rejoined Bonnie, and resumed a life of crime.”
At the time they were captured and killed, they were believed to have killed 13 people, and committed several robberies and burglaries. Although the couple have been sensationalized by way of a movie with Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty, they were hardened criminals. Here are some images of both the true Bonnie and Clyde and the film couple. Enjoy!
I am also fascinated with the crime “celebs” from the 20-50’s. Thanks for the info and great pictures! I like that you don’t glamorize it either, no sugar coating that stuff!
I also enjoy the good old days, including watching those vintage black and white movies. Your history lessons work well with the pictures.
Now true crime…..that’s where I really pay attention. I’d love to be a detective back in the day and see if I could solve those capers. What a thrill that would have been to nab a gangster.
What wonderful posts, I caught up with the last few and loved this one best. I live in Texas and B&C left their mark around here and I have always found their story interesting. This link has some great photos too. You’ve given me some vintage fashion inspiration…I have to start looking for Bonnie wear for a post myself! Love your blog.
It’s true! Many of these criminals were like celebrities in their day. I think they actually did spend time with some of the current Hollywood stars. They created some fascinating history and certainly have been glamorized by the movies! Interesting post!
Thanks girlie. I am trying to share some of the “useless” knowledge I seem to have! LOL. Have a nice Sunday. Kori xoxo
So interesting! Thank goodness they were stopped in the end.
I just adore the photo’s of Myrna and Hedy … so so beautiful and glamorous.
xox