The Fictional Portrayal of Bumpy Johnson in 'Godfather of Harlem'

'Godfather of Harlem' is a new series that has sparked controversy with its portrayal of Bumpy Johnson. This article delves into the discrepancies between the show and historical facts, highlighting the creative liberties taken for dramatic effect. We will explore Johnson's role in the 1900s Harlem and the show's misrepresentations of key figures and events.

Historical Context and Bumpy Johnson

Bumpy Johnson, whose real name was Benjamin William Johnson Jr., was a prominent street politician, gangster, and entrepreneur in Harlem during the mid-20th century. He was known for his violent nature, criminal activities, and influence over the community. However, there is very little concrete evidence that supports the show's claim that Bumpy Johnson personally killed a made guy from Chin Gigante's crew.

Creative Liberties and Dramatization

'Godfather of Harlem' is a dramatized series that focuses on the tensions and conflicts within the Harlem mafia scene. The show takes creative liberties with historical events, including the depiction of Bumpy Johnson's violent confrontations with other mob figures. This dramatization is often done to enhance the storytelling and provide a more engaging narrative. However, it is important to approach such shows with the understanding that the specific events, including killings, may not align with historical facts.

Historical Discrepancies in 'Godfather of Harlem'

The series depicts Bumpy Johnson as a contemporary of Chin Gigante, when in reality, Bumpy died in the late 1960s, well before Gigante became the boss. Bumpy's empire was also taken over by Frank Lucas, another prominent figure in Harlem. It is also worth noting that Bumpy Johnson had conflicts with various members of organized crime, but his interactions and rivalries were not limited to the Italian mafia.

Accurate Portrayals and Alternate Viewpoints

There are other works, such as the movie 'Hoodlum', which is also based on Bumpy Johnson. However, the storyline of this movie is not entirely accurate. The movie incorrectly portrays Bumpy Johnson as ordering the killing of Dutch Schulz with Luciano's consent. In reality, it was Luciano and the Commission who removed Dutch Schulz from power due to his uncontrollable behavior, including his plans to kill Thomas Dewey, the New York Attorney General and a presidential candidate. Murder Inc. carried out the hit with their own lieutenants.

Analysis of the Mafia in Harlem

The comparison between the Italian crime families and the Black gangs is a critical point of discussion. The power dynamics between these groups were hugely imbalanced. Black gangs, like Bumpy Johnson's, could not compete with the organizational structure and resources of the Italian families. The Italian leaders, referred to as 'that nigger' by the Italians, showed no respect to Bumpy and ultimately, Bumpy's influence dwindled as the Italian families grew in power.

Conclusion

While 'Godfather of Harlem' offers an engaging narrative, it is essential to differentiate between historical facts and dramatic fiction. Bumpy Johnson's role in Harlem's mafia community is complex and multifaceted, and the show takes creative liberties to portray the conflicts and rivalries. For a more accurate and gritty portrayal, one may want to explore works like 'Gomorrah', which focuses on the real-life Camorra and offers a more realistic depiction of organized crime.