35 Facts About Danny Greene

Early Life and Background

Danny Greene, a notorious figure in Cleveland's criminal history, had a life filled with intrigue and danger. His early years set the stage for his future endeavors.

1. Born on November 14, 1933, in Cleveland, Ohio, Danny Greene's early life was marked by hardship. His mother died shortly after his birth, leaving him to be raised by his father and grandparents.

2. Greene attended St. Ignatius High School but dropped out in his junior year. Despite his lack of formal education, he was known for his intelligence and street smarts.

3. After leaving school, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps. His time in the Marines instilled in him a sense of discipline and toughness that would later define his criminal career.

Rise in the Criminal Underworld

Danny Greene's ascent in the world of organized crime was swift and ruthless. His actions earned him both respect and fear.

4. Greene started his criminal career as a longshoreman on the Cleveland docks. He quickly became involved in union activities, using his position to gain power and influence.

5. In the 1960s, he became the president of the International Longshoremen's Association. His leadership was marked by corruption and violence, solidifying his reputation as a formidable figure.

6. Greene earned the nickname "The Irishman" due to his Irish heritage and his fierce pride in his ancestry. This moniker would follow him throughout his life.

The War with the Mafia

Danny Greene's most infamous period was his war with the Cleveland Mafia. This conflict was marked by numerous bombings and violent confrontations.

7. Greene's feud with the Mafia began in the early 1970s. He sought to control the city's criminal activities, challenging the Mafia's dominance.

8. The conflict escalated into a series of bombings. Greene survived several assassination attempts, earning a reputation for being nearly invincible.

9. One of the most notable bombings occurred on May 12, 1975, when a car bomb intended for Greene exploded prematurely, killing the would-be assassin instead.

Personal Life and Characteristics

Despite his criminal activities, Danny Greene had a complex personal life. His personality and relationships added depth to his character.

10. Greene was known for his charisma and charm. He could be both ruthless and personable, making him a complex figure in the eyes of those who knew him.

11. He had a deep love for animals, particularly dogs. Greene often kept several dogs as pets, showing a softer side to his otherwise tough persona.

12. Greene was married twice. His first marriage ended in divorce, and his second wife, Nancy Hegler, stood by him throughout his criminal career.

The Fall of Danny Greene

Danny Greene's life of crime eventually caught up with him. His downfall was as dramatic as his rise.

13. On October 6, 1977, Greene was killed by a car bomb outside his dentist's office in Lyndhurst, Ohio. His death marked the end of a violent era in Cleveland's criminal history.

14. The bomb that killed Greene was planted by hitman Ray Ferritto, who was hired by the Cleveland Mafia. Ferritto later turned informant, leading to numerous arrests.

15. Greene's death led to a significant decline in Mafia power in Cleveland. The FBI used the opportunity to crack down on organized crime in the city.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Danny Greene's life and death left a lasting impact on popular culture. His story has been told in various forms of media.

16. The 2011 film "Kill the Irishman" is based on Greene's life. The movie stars Ray Stevenson as Greene and chronicles his rise and fall in the criminal underworld.

17. Greene's story has also been featured in several documentaries, including "Danny Greene: The Rise and Fall of the Irishman," which provides an in-depth look at his life.

18. Despite his criminal activities, some view Greene as a folk hero. His defiance against the Mafia and his larger-than-life persona have made him a legendary figure in Cleveland's history.

Interesting Tidbits

Beyond the well-known facts, there are several lesser-known aspects of Danny Greene's life that add to his mystique.

19. Greene was known for his love of fitness. He maintained a rigorous workout routine, which contributed to his imposing physical presence.

20. He had a fascination with Celtic mythology. Greene often referenced Irish legends and symbols, further cementing his identity as "The Irishman."

21. Greene was a skilled boxer in his youth. His fighting skills were well-known and added to his reputation as a tough and formidable figure.

22. Despite his criminal activities, Greene had a strong sense of loyalty. He was known to fiercely protect his friends and associates, often going to great lengths to ensure their safety.

23. Greene's favorite color was green, which he often wore. This preference extended to his choice of cars, as he was frequently seen driving green vehicles.

24. He had a distinctive sense of humor. Greene often made jokes and light-hearted comments, even in tense situations, which endeared him to some of his associates.

25. Greene was a devout Catholic. Despite his criminal lifestyle, he regularly attended church and maintained a strong faith throughout his life.

Final Years and Posthumous Recognition

Danny Greene's final years were marked by increasing tension and danger. His legacy continues to be remembered and studied.

26. In the years leading up to his death, Greene became increasingly paranoid. He took extensive precautions to avoid assassination, including changing his routine frequently.

27. Greene's death was a turning point in Cleveland's criminal history. It marked the beginning of the end for the Mafia's control over the city.

28. After his death, Greene's story continued to captivate the public. Books, articles, and films have explored his life, ensuring that his legacy endures.

29. Greene's life has been the subject of academic study. Scholars have examined his impact on organized crime and his role in the history of Cleveland.

30. Despite his criminal activities, some view Greene as a symbol of resistance. His defiance against the Mafia and his larger-than-life persona have made him a legendary figure in Cleveland's history.

31. Greene's story has inspired other works of fiction. Characters based on him have appeared in various novels, television shows, and films.

32. The site of Greene's death has become a point of interest. People often visit the location to learn more about his life and the events that led to his demise.

33. Greene's influence extended beyond Cleveland. His actions and the subsequent crackdown on organized crime had a ripple effect on other cities dealing with similar issues.

34. Despite his violent lifestyle, Greene had a code of ethics. He often targeted those he viewed as corrupt or unjust, which garnered him a certain level of respect.

35. Greene's life serves as a cautionary tale. His rise and fall illustrate the dangers and consequences of a life of crime, making his story both fascinating and tragic.

Final Glimpse into Danny Greene's Life

Danny Greene's life was a whirlwind of crime, power, and mystery. Known as the "Celtic Warrior," he rose from a troubled childhood to become a notorious figure in Cleveland's underworld. His charismatic personality and fearless nature made him both a leader and a target. Greene's involvement in the Cleveland Mafia Wars of the 1970s left a lasting impact on the city's criminal landscape. Despite numerous attempts on his life, he survived until a car bomb ended his reign in 1977. His story has inspired books, documentaries, and films, cementing his place in American crime history. Danny Greene remains a fascinating figure, embodying the danger and intrigue of organized crime. His legacy continues to captivate those interested in the darker side of human nature.