The Krays: Ronnie, Charlie or the Worst?
The Krays: Ronnie, Charlie or the Worst?
The Krays are a notorious and controversial topic in British criminal history, particularly the brothers Ronald Reginald Kray and Charles George Kray. Often the subject of fascination, their legacy seems to be a mix of admiration and revulsion. The question of who was truly the worst of the two, Ronnie Reginald or Charlie, sparks frequent debate among both scholars and the general public.
One Gentleman and One Psychopath
Charles Kray, who died in 1993, was often narrated as the more polite and gentlemanly of the two brothers. Suffering from depression later in life, he had a reputation for carrying himself like a proper gentleman. Charlie was particularly courteous towards women, often charming and polite, a stark contrast to his infamous brother.
On the other hand, Ronald Reginald Kray, commonly known as Ronnie, was a much more complex individual. In his softer moments, Ronnie could exhibit similar traits to Charlie, but his personality took a darker turn during his more violent and disturbed episodes. Ronnie was known for his violent nature, his paranoid schizophrenia, and his extreme obsession with Westerns and the Italian-American Mafia.
A More Complex Character
Ronnie's unpredictability and volatility were legendary. Known for his charm in moments of clarity, Ronnie had a deep-seated mental illness coupled with a propensity for violence. When lucid and present, he could charm individuals with his words, but his temper could flare up in a heartbeat. This capacity for both charm and violence made him a particularly dangerous adversary.
According to many accounts, if you were unlucky enough to enrage either of the Kray brothers, you would want it to be Charlie. Charlie, while still a notorious figure, generally retained a sense of decorum. Ronnie, while capable of similar violent acts, demonstrated a darker and more callous aspect that was more unsettling.
The Proliferation of Myth
Despite the complexities of their characters, the Krays have become almost cult heroes in certain circles. Their criminal activities, their notoriety, and the Hollywood portrayal of their lives often leave people questioning which of them was truly the worst. The charlatan-like qualities of Ronnie's persona, together with his violent tendencies, have contributed to his infamy.
Interestingly, despite the horror that they brought upon society, many people still find them fascinating, a point that prompted the question of whether they should be celebrated or condemned. This fascination, however, should not blind us to the fact that the Krays were violent thugs, with Ronnie being the most extreme in his antisocial behavior and criminal activities.
The Myth and Reality
While the allure of the Krays' criminal legacy is undeniable, it is crucial to separate fact from fiction. Ronnie Reginald Kray was not just a gangster but a psychopathic one. His violent and unpredictable nature, combined with his paranoid schizophrenia, made him a highly dangerous figure in British society. Charlie Kray, while still a criminal and accountable for his actions, retained more of the gentility that is often associated with proper British gentlemen.
Both brothers were involved in numerous criminal activities, ranging from prostitution to murder. Their influence on British crime and the English criminal underworld was significant. It is important to recognize their impact on history and criminal justice, rather than to indulge in romanticized portrayals.