The oldest gang in New York

The Five Points Gang, one of the most notorious criminal organizations in New York City during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, played a pivotal role in the city's underworld. Named after the Five Points neighborhood in Lower Manhattan, where five streets converged, this area was a notorious slum characterized by overcrowded tenements, poverty, and crime. In the mid-1800s, it became a melting pot of immigrants, particularly Irish and Italian.
Initially, the gang was composed largely of Irish immigrants. Its influence and numbers grew under the leadership of Paul Kelly (born Paolo Antonio Vaccarelli). Kelly’s leadership marked a significant shift as he brought in more Italian members and expanded the gang's operations.
The Five Points Gang was structured with a clear hierarchy, with Kelly at the top, supported by lieutenants who managed various aspects of the gang's activities. Several infamous criminals started their careers with the Five Points Gang, including Al Capone, Charles "Lucky" Luciano, and Johnny Torrio.
The gang's influence began to wane in the 1910s and 1920s as law enforcement efforts increased and internal conflicts arose. Additionally, many of its prominent members moved to join the emerging Mafia families.
Despite its decline, the legacy of the Five Points Gang endured. It served as a training ground for future leaders of organized crime and played a significant role in the evolution of the American Mafia.

[@seltzer30]

Were the Whyos in the 5 points gang?

[@OppAvailabe]

No they were a gay faction..who prayed on cornholes..& cock holsters..(mouths) they are the original diddy crew…

[@roadtrip2943]

It's Tammany hall today's dems

[@Thomas.Bolleiro]

Also don't forget the "Purple Gang"