The Notorious ‘Scarface’ Al Capone: The Untold Story Behind His Nickname

Al Capone, one of the most notorious gangsters in American history, earned widespread recognition during the 1920s for his prowess and ruthlessness. However, a lesser-known aspect of his life is the origin of his infamous nickname ‘Scarface’. In this article, we will delve into the story behind this moniker and explore the lesser-known facts about the man behind the legend.

Al Capone: An Overview

Alphonse Gabriel Capone, often known as Al Capone, was a prominent American gangster, businessman, and mafia leader during the Prohibition era. Operating in Chicago, Capone rose to become one of the city’s most feared and powerful mob bosses. His criminal activities included everything from illegal alcohol sales to prostitution, leading to his arrest and eventual imprisonment. Despite his ruthless tactics, Capone is remembered as one of the most notorious figures of the Roaring Twenties.

The Origin of the Nickname ‘Scarface’

The nickname ‘Scarface’ was derived from an incident that took place when Capone was still a young hoodlum. According to historical records, the story of his nickname began in a small bar in Boston, named the Harvard Inn. This establishment was a common hangout for young hoodlums, including Capone.

The Incident at the Harvard Inn

One fateful day, a young man named Frank Galluccio walked into the Harvard Inn. Frank was Brother Luke Galluccio’s younger brother, who had a sister whom Capone had once made a crude comment about. During this encounter, a heated argument ensued. In his zeal, Capone drew out a knife or razor and slashed Galluccio across his left cheek. The slash left a lasting scar on Galluccio’s face, leading to the nickname ‘Scarface’.

It is important to note that Capone did not appreciate being called 'Scarface'. In reality, he had a scar on the left side of his face, which was a result of this altercation. Capone heavily disliked the nickname, possibly due to the unpleasant experience of being associated with violence and the constant reminder of the incident. Therefore, he was often photographed on the right side of his face to avoid drawing attention to the scar.

Contradictions and Misconceptions

Many people believe that Capone was nicknamed 'Scarface' because he had a naturally occurring scar on his face. This, however, is not the case. The nickname was a direct result of an incident that Capone himself was involved in. Additionally, Capone was recorded as being responsible for more such incidents, further cementing the image of his own infamy.

The Legacy of ‘Scarface’ Al Capone

The story of Al Capone’s nickname ‘Scarface’ serves as a reminder of the chaos and violence that characterized the Prohibition era. Capone’s rise to power was a product of the times, and his nickname is a testament to the brutality that defined his criminal enterprise.

Despite his infamy, Capone remains a fascinating figure in American history. His cunning business strategies, his battle against law enforcement, and his charismatic personality have made him the subject of numerous books and films. However, it is crucial to understand and separate the facts from the myths surrounding the man behind the moniker ‘Scarface’.

References: Historians such as Darko Trifunovski and David Critchley have extensively researched Capone and his nickname. Their works provide valuable insights into the real life and legacy of ‘Scarface’ Al Capone.