Friday, February 14, 2014

The St. Valentine's Day Massacre

This Day in History: February 14, 1929

The grisly scene inside the SMC Cartage Company after gunmen
dressed as policemen mowed down members of the Moran gang.
(Chicago Tribune / February 14, 1929)

Not every Valentine's Day is remembered for wine and roses, nor has every one celebrated with a box of chocolates. Of historical importance is February 14, 1929 and the event known as The St. Valentine's Day Massacre. This particular day remains the most notorious gangster killing of the Prohibition era. The massacre made Al Capone a national celebrity, as well as brought him the unwanted attention of the federal government.

Prohibition & Speakeasies

During the late 1920s when gang warfare ruled the streets of Chicago, Al "Scarface" Capone sought complete control by eliminating his rivals in the trades of bootlegging, gambling and prostitution. This was the era during which the 'speakeasies' were numerous and very popular. The Roaring 20s definitely roared on this day as the rash of gang violence climaxed in a blood bath! But, was the main target left lying in a pool of blood?

The St. Valentine's Day Massacre

With one ruthless stroke, Al Capone assumes undisputed leadership of Chicago crime.

George "Bugs" Moran was on his way to the garage in Chicago at the time of the St. Valentine's Day Massacre; he missed getting killed by minutes. A few days later, he told reporters "Only Capone kills like that." Reached at his Florida home for comment on the murders, Capone offered his own opinion: "The only man who kills like that is Bugs Moran."
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