35 Facts About Joe Gallo

Early Life of Joe Gallo

Joe Gallo, also known as "Crazy Joe," was a notorious figure in the world of organized crime. His early life set the stage for his infamous career.

1. Joe Gallo was born on April 7, 1929, in Brooklyn, New York.
2. He grew up in the Red Hook neighborhood, a tough area known for its crime and poverty.
3. His father, Umberto Gallo, was a bootlegger during Prohibition.
4. Joe had two brothers, Larry and Albert, who also became involved in organized crime.
5. He dropped out of school in the eighth grade.

Rise in the Mafia

Joe Gallo's rise in the Mafia was marked by violence and ambition. He quickly made a name for himself within the criminal underworld.

6. He joined the Profaci crime family in the 1950s.
7. Gallo was known for his ruthlessness and willingness to use violence.
8. He earned the nickname "Crazy Joe" due to his unpredictable behavior.
9. In 1961, he was involved in the kidnapping of several high-ranking members of the Profaci family.
10. This led to a violent gang war known as the "Gallo-Profaci War."

Time in Prison

Joe Gallo's criminal activities eventually caught up with him, leading to a significant period behind bars.

11. In 1961, he was convicted of extortion and sentenced to seven to fourteen years in prison.
12. While in prison, he read extensively, including works by Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus.
13. Gallo also befriended African-American inmates, which was unusual for a Mafia member at the time.
14. He was released on parole in 1971 after serving nearly ten years.
15. Upon his release, he attempted to regain control of his criminal empire.

Return to Crime

After his release, Joe Gallo wasted no time in returning to his life of crime, but his actions would soon lead to his downfall.

16. He tried to take over the Colombo crime family, leading to further violence.
17. Gallo was involved in several high-profile murders during this time.
18. He became a target for rival mobsters due to his aggressive tactics.
19. On April 7, 1972, he celebrated his 43rd birthday at Umberto's Clam House in Little Italy.
20. That night, he was ambushed and killed by gunmen.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Joe Gallo's life and death left a lasting impact on popular culture and the Mafia's history.

21. His life inspired the character of Joey Gallo in the 1974 film "Crazy Joe."
22. Bob Dylan wrote a song about him titled "Joey," which appeared on the 1976 album "Desire."
23. Gallo's story was also depicted in the 2019 film "The Irishman," directed by Martin Scorsese.
24. He remains a controversial figure, with some viewing him as a ruthless criminal and others as a rebel against the Mafia's traditional hierarchy.
25. His death marked the end of a violent era in New York's organized crime history.

Personal Life

Despite his criminal activities, Joe Gallo had a personal life that was complex and filled with relationships and family ties.

26. He married Joan Moriarty in 1971, shortly after his release from prison.
27. Gallo had one daughter, Lisa, from a previous relationship.
28. He was known for his love of art and literature, often visiting galleries and bookstores.
29. Gallo was also a fan of jazz music, frequently attending performances in New York City.
30. Despite his violent reputation, he had a charismatic personality that attracted many friends and associates.

Final Days

The final days of Joe Gallo's life were marked by tension and danger as he navigated the treacherous world of organized crime.

31. He was constantly on the move, aware that he was a target for assassination.
32. Gallo's death was ordered by rival mobster Joseph Colombo.
33. The hit was carried out by members of the Colombo crime family.
34. His funeral was attended by hundreds, including many prominent figures in the Mafia.
35. Joe Gallo's death remains one of the most infamous moments in Mafia history.

Final Glimpse into Joe Gallo's Life

Joe Gallo's life was a whirlwind of crime, controversy, and charisma. Known for his boldness and unpredictability, Gallo left a lasting mark on the mafia world. His nickname, "Crazy Joe," wasn't just for show; it reflected his erratic and often violent behavior. Despite his criminal activities, Gallo had a fascination with literature and art, mingling with celebrities and intellectuals. His death in 1972 at Umberto's Clam House remains one of the most infamous moments in mob history.

Gallo's life story serves as a reminder of the complexity of human nature. He was a man who embraced both violence and culture, leaving behind a legacy that's both fascinating and tragic. Whether seen as a villain or a rebel, Joe Gallo's life continues to captivate those interested in the darker side of history.