235. The British Criminal Underworld in The Second World War.
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Deep Dive
Why did crime in Britain increase by 60% during World War II?
Crime surged due to wartime conditions like the blackout, rationing, and the chaos of the Blitz, which created opportunities for theft, looting, and black market activities. Criminals exploited these conditions to enrich themselves, leading to a significant rise in criminal activity.
How did criminals evade National Service during the war?
Some criminals bribed their way out of service, while others went on the run or were already in prison. Women in the vice trade, such as prostitutes, could avoid conscription by listing their occupation on their papers. Additionally, crooked doctors provided medical exemptions for unfit service.
What was the scale of looting during the Blitz?
Looting was widespread, with nearly 5,000 cases heard at the Old Bailey in the run-up to Christmas 1940. It involved people from all walks of life, including emergency workers, civilians, and criminals. In extreme cases, looters even stole jewelry from dead bodies in bombed-out nightclubs like the Café de Paris.
Who dominated the black market in wartime Britain?
Billy Hill, known as the 'king of the black market,' was the most prominent figure. He and other gangsters like Jack Spot controlled the trade in rationed goods such as food, petrol, and clothing. The black market was highly organized, with stolen or forged ration books being a lucrative commodity.
How did the vice trade thrive during the war?
The vice trade flourished due to the loosening of sexual mores and the influx of American soldiers. The Messinas, a gang of Italian-Maltese origin, dominated the prostitution business in Mayfair. They enforced strict rules on their workers and operated out of expensive flats, making significant profits.
What role did American soldiers play in wartime crime in Britain?
American soldiers, including deserters, were involved in crimes such as robbery and murder. Some carried guns, adding a dangerous dimension to their activities. Racial tensions also led to conflicts, with black soldiers facing discrimination and harsher judicial outcomes compared to their white counterparts.
Did the criminal underworld maintain its power after the war?
Yes, many gang leaders like Billy Hill and the Messinas continued their operations into peacetime. The black market persisted due to ongoing rationing, and major heists remained common. However, increased scrutiny from journalists and law enforcement eventually led to the downfall of some key figures.
What was the police response to wartime crime in Britain?
The police were overwhelmed by their wartime responsibilities, including enforcing the blackout and dealing with looting. Corruption was also prevalent, with some officers turning a blind eye to criminal activities. Significant crackdowns on organized crime only began in the mid-1950s.
- Crime grew by around 60% between 1939 and 1945.
- Blackout rules and rationing led to increased criminal opportunities.
- Criminals used various methods to evade national service, including bribery and forging medical documents.
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