Who were the Kray Twins? The Kray Twins, Ronnie and Reggie Kray, were notorious English gangsters who ruled London's East End during the 1950s and 1960s. Born on October 24, 1933, these identical twins became infamous for their involvement in organized crime, including armed robberies, arson, protection rackets, assaults, and murders. They owned nightclubs and rubbed shoulders with celebrities, making them both feared and oddly glamorous. Their reign of terror ended in 1968 when they were arrested and later sentenced to life imprisonment. Despite their criminal activities, the Kray Twins remain a significant part of British pop culture, often depicted in films, books, and documentaries.
Key Takeaways:
- The Kray Twins, Ronnie and Reggie, were notorious British gangsters who ruled London's East End in the 1950s and 1960s, involved in a wide range of criminal activities including murder, which ultimately led to their downfall and imprisonment.
- Despite their criminal activities, the Kray Twins left a lasting impact on British culture, inspiring books, films, and even a dedicated fan base, while also sparking controversy over their legacy as either folk heroes or brutal criminals.
Who Were the Kray Twins?
The Kray Twins, Ronnie and Reggie, were infamous British gangsters who ruled London's East End during the 1950s and 1960s. Their criminal empire included armed robbery, arson, protection rackets, and even murder. Here are some intriguing facts about these notorious brothers.
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Ronnie and Reggie Kray were identical twins. Born on October 24, 1933, in Hoxton, London, they shared an uncanny resemblance that often confused people.
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They were amateur boxers before turning to crime. Both brothers showed promise in the boxing ring, which helped them gain a reputation for toughness.
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Their gang was called "The Firm." This name became synonymous with organized crime in London.
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Ronnie was openly bisexual. In a time when homosexuality was illegal in the UK, Ronnie's sexuality was an open secret.
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They owned several nightclubs. These establishments were used as fronts for their criminal activities and were frequented by celebrities.
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The Krays were involved in the murder of George Cornell. Ronnie shot Cornell in the Blind Beggar pub in 1966.
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Reggie murdered Jack "the Hat" McVitie. This brutal killing in 1967 was a turning point that led to their downfall.
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They were arrested in 1968. Scotland Yard finally gathered enough evidence to arrest the twins and their associates.
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Both were sentenced to life imprisonment. In 1969, they were convicted of murder and given life sentences with a minimum of 30 years.
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Ronnie was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. His mental health issues were well-documented and affected his behavior.
The Kray Twins' Influence and Legacy
The Kray Twins left an indelible mark on British culture. Their story has been told in books, films, and documentaries, making them legends of the criminal underworld.
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They were portrayed by Tom Hardy in the film "Legend." This 2015 movie brought their story to a new generation.
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Their mother, Violet Kray, was a significant influence. She was fiercely protective and supportive of her sons.
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They had connections with American Mafia. The Krays were known to have links with prominent Mafia figures.
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Ronnie was fascinated by military history. He collected military memorabilia and even wore a military uniform at times.
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Reggie was more business-minded. He handled the financial aspects of their operations.
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They were involved in the gambling scene. The Krays controlled several illegal gambling dens.
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Their story inspired numerous books. Authors like John Pearson and Fred Dinenage have written extensively about them.
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They were known for their violent temper. Both brothers had a reputation for being ruthless and quick to anger.
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They were friends with celebrities. Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, and Barbara Windsor were among their acquaintances.
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Their funerals were major events. Thousands of people attended their funerals, reflecting their notoriety.
The Downfall and Aftermath
The Kray Twins' reign of terror eventually came to an end, but their legacy continues to fascinate people worldwide.
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Their trial was one of the longest in British history. It lasted 39 days and captivated the nation.
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They were held in separate prisons. This was done to prevent them from plotting further crimes.
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Ronnie spent time in Broadmoor Hospital. Due to his mental health issues, he was transferred to this high-security psychiatric hospital.
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Reggie found religion in prison. He became a born-again Christian and expressed remorse for his crimes.
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Ronnie died in 1995. He passed away from a heart attack while still in custody.
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Reggie was released on compassionate grounds. He was released in 2000 due to terminal cancer and died shortly after.
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Their story is part of London's dark history. The Krays are often mentioned in discussions about the city's criminal past.
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They inspired TV shows and documentaries. Their lives have been the subject of numerous television programs.
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Their criminal empire was vast. It included extortion, fraud, and other illegal activities.
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They were skilled manipulators. The twins were adept at using fear and intimidation to control others.
The Cultural Impact of the Kray Twins
The Kray Twins have become cultural icons, representing the dark side of London's history. Their story continues to captivate audiences.
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They have a dedicated fan base. Some people are fascinated by their lives and collect memorabilia related to them.
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Their story has been adapted into plays. The Krays' lives have inspired theatrical productions.
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They are often referenced in popular culture. Songs, books, and movies frequently mention the twins.
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Their legacy is controversial. While some view them as folk heroes, others see them as brutal criminals.
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Their influence extends beyond the UK. The Kray Twins are known worldwide, making them one of the most infamous criminal duos in history.
The Legacy of the Kray Twins
The Kray Twins left an indelible mark on London's criminal history. Their reign of terror, marked by violence, intimidation, and a lavish lifestyle, continues to fascinate and horrify. Despite their criminal activities, they managed to become celebrities, mingling with the rich and famous. Their story has been immortalized in books, films, and documentaries, ensuring their legacy endures.
Understanding the Kray Twins' impact helps us grasp the complexities of crime and celebrity. Their tale serves as a stark reminder of how charisma can mask darker deeds. As we reflect on their lives, it's clear that their influence extends beyond their criminal empire, shaping perceptions of crime and punishment. The Kray Twins remain a compelling chapter in the annals of crime, a testament to the allure and danger of a life lived on the edge.
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