Postwar London Sees Crime Surge, 1.5M Homeless in 1946

New York City has a deep and complex history intertwined with crime and culture, particularly in the realms of comic books and organized crime. The city's vibrant energy and diverse communities, especially Jewish neighborhoods, played a crucial role in the birth and development of American comic books, with iconic characters like Spider-Man deeply connected to the cityscape. Meanwhile, the city's criminal underworld has been shaped by notorious figures such as Henry Medina, a former gangster and hitman who led a street gang in the 1970s and 80s, and an early 20th-century gangster known as 'The Killer,' who rose to prominence during Prohibition and wielded significant influence in Manhattan. These stories illustrate the dual legacy of New York as both a creative hub and a battleground for crime, reflecting broader social and historical dynamics. The intertwining of culture and crime is further illuminated by personal accounts and histories, emphasizing New York's unique role in shaping American popular and criminal culture alike.