Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

A fascinating insight into 'Gangs' from the beginning to mid-century. It's a recommended read.

A fascinating guide into the criminal masterminds that led us into the 20th century. The approach is informative as well as entertaining.

Paul Dettman’s British Gangs: From 1900 to 1950 is a meticulously researched exploration of gang culture in early 20th-century Britain, shedding light on a shadowy and often misunderstood aspect of social history. With its detailed accounts of infamous figures and events, this book bridges the gap between academic research and accessible storytelling, making it an engaging read for true crime enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Dettman paints a vivid picture of the turbulent decades when urban poverty, industrial decline, and shifting social dynamics gave rise to notorious gangs like the Birmingham Peaky Blinders and the Glasgow Razor Gangs. He skilfully contextualises the rise of these groups, connecting their activities to the broader socio-economic changes of the time, including the impact of two World Wars and the struggles of working-class communities.

The book’s greatest strength lies in its depth of detail. Drawing on court records, contemporary journalism, and firsthand accounts, Dettman provides a compelling narrative of crime, violence, and survival in the gritty underbelly of British cities. He goes beyond the sensationalist aspects of gang life to explore their cultural significance, from the role of fashion and identity in gang membership to the interplay between gangs and law enforcement. His section on female gangsters is particularly fascinating as it is rare for a book to discuss female gangsters or the role of women within gangs.

However, the book is not without its challenges. At times, the density of historical data can feel overwhelming, and the writing occasionally leans toward an academic tone that might deter casual readers. Additionally, while Dettman provides a wealth of information on some gangs, other regions and groups receive comparatively less attention, leaving certain parts of the picture underdeveloped.

Despite these minor flaws, British Gangs: From 1900 to 1950 is a fascinating and invaluable resource. Dettman not only illuminates a rarely discussed aspect of British history but also invites readers to reconsider the social and economic forces that shaped—and were shaped by—gang culture.

Whether you’re a fan of historical crime, a lover of gritty social history, or simply curious about the real stories behind fictionalised depictions of gangs, this book offers a gripping and thought-provoking read.

British Gangs offers a fascinating deep dive into the first half of the 20th century, revealing the gritty and often misunderstood world of Britain’s early gang culture. From infamous names like the Sabinis and Billy Kimber to overlooked figures like Alice Diamond and Kate Meyrick, this book paints a vivid portrait of a turbulent era shaped by social upheaval, sensationalist media, and the growing fear of organized crime.

The book’s strongest asset is its meticulous research. Drawing heavily from newspaper archives of the time, the author uncovers stories that capture the raw excitement and drama of gang life, including car chases, gunfights, and daring cons. The text goes beyond the well-trodden narratives of Birmingham and London, offering insight into criminal activity in cities like Glasgow, Hull, and Belfast, broadening the scope of Britain’s gang history.

One standout aspect is the inclusion of female gangsters, a group often sidelined in histories of organized crime. Figures like Alice Diamond and Mary Carr bring a fresh and compelling perspective to the book, showcasing the crucial roles women played in gang culture and criminal enterprises. The exploration of prison life also adds depth, shedding light on how incarceration shaped the lives of gang members and their post-prison activities.

Despite the thrilling stories, the book never fully succumbs to romanticizing gang life. It provides a balanced view, showing how much of the fear surrounding these groups was stoked by an eager press seeking sensational headlines. This nuanced approach enriches the narrative, making it as much a commentary on society’s shifting perceptions as it is a history of crime.

Verdict

British Gangs is a gripping, well-researched, and nuanced account of early 20th-century gang culture in Britain. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, true crime aficionado, or simply curious about the gritty underbelly of Britain’s cities during this era, this book delivers a trove of forgotten stories and fresh perspectives. An essential read for anyone interested in the intersection of crime, class, and culture.

British Gangs was an interesting read, but it didn't grip me like I hoped it would. It was very academically written. 3 stars

I found this book somewhat fragmented and drifting at times. Although of interest it covered many individuals with no proof that they were gang members - perhaps 'gangsters' ?- a term used separately by the author.
A lot of stories seemed to end quite abruptly without us knowing the end which may or may not been available to the author.
My thanks to NetGalley and Pen & Sword for this arc in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

*British Gangs* by Paul Dettmann offers an insightful, well-researched dive into the world of gang culture in Britain, presenting a nuanced look at the socio-economic factors that shape it. Dettmann combines historical context with personal stories, making the book both informative and engaging. His writing style is clear and direct, capturing the complexity of gang life without sensationalism, which is refreshing and thought-provoking. This book is an eye-opener for readers interested in understanding the roots and realities of gang influence in British society. A compelling read for anyone interested in sociology, criminology, or contemporary British culture.

Not a bad book. I appreciate the author was trying to tell the stories of gangs and areas that have not been covered extensively before. Probably the most interesting bit was Kate Meyrick and the 43 club.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Paul Dettmann’s “British Gangs: From 1900 to 1950” offers a riveting exploration of the underworld that shaped Britain’s early 20th century. This meticulously researched book delves into the lives and crimes of notorious gangs, providing a comprehensive look at a turbulent period in British history.

Dettmann’s approach is scholarly and engaging, making the book accessible to both academics and general readers. He covers a wide range of gangs, from the infamous Peaky Blinders to lesser-known female criminals. The book is structured chronologically, allowing readers to see the evolution of gang culture and its impact on British society.

“British Gangs” focuses on individual stories that bring the era to life. Dettmann provides detailed accounts of key figures, their rise to power, and their eventual downfall.

The book explores themes of power, poverty, and social upheaval. Dettmann examines how economic hardship and war contributed to the rise of gangs, and how these groups both exploited and protected their communities.

Dettmann’s writing is clear and compelling, with a narrative style that keeps readers engaged. His attention to detail and ability to weave historical facts into a cohesive story make the book both informative and entertaining. The use of primary sources, including police records and contemporary newspaper articles, adds authenticity to the stories.

“British Gangs: From 1900 to 1950” is a fascinating and well-researched book that sheds light on a dark and often misunderstood part of British history.

Paul Dettmann has created a work that is educational and captivating, making it a must-read for anyone interested in true crime, social history, or the complexities of human behavior.

This is an interesting collection of stories about gangs from the turn of the century to mid century. It looks at a selection of them from around England, Scotland and Ireland. What makes this fascinating reading is the way they differ from American gangsters who are also represented in the book. Guns were generally not a factor although the gangs could be every bit as violent and intimidating as the ones across the pond.

It looks at some of the social factors that went into a fertile enviroment for gangs. Poverty played a major role, although I might disagree that it was the primary determining factor. If that was the case, there would have been far more gangs than there were. But it did play a major role where there was “safety” in numbers. It told how once ensnared, it was almost impossible to get out, although there were a few examples. It also dealt with how two world wars and modern inventions would play a part in the development of the gang culture.

Clearly the author has research his topic well and presents a cogent and convincing document. Four purrs and two paws up.

Brilliant book, love gang land history. This book brings to life the gangs and what happened
Well written and researched
Definitely worth reading great book for gift