Monk Eastman: The Gangster Who Became a War Hero by Neil Hanson
Pet shop owner.
Petty thief.
Pimp.
Street brawler.
Leader of a street gang 2,000 strong, the most feared on the Lower East Side of New York City by 1900.
Muscle for the corrupt Tammany Hall political machine.
Convict.
A colorful life, and worthy of a biography....but that was only half of Monk Eastman's story.
Having lost his criminal empire while in prison, he would enlist and go off to fight in World War 1.....where his talent for street fighting, and fearless nature would see him cited for bravery, hailed as a hero upon his return home, and his crimes pardoned.
But Monk's past was never far away....and gaining on him.
An engaging biography of a truly unique individual, and a well researched history of both Old New York.
Highly recommended for fans of The Gangs of New York, or anyone who enjoys a well written biography.
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