Peaky Blinders: The Real Story Behind the Series
Peaky Blinders has captivated audiences with its portrayal of gangsters and grit in post-war Birmingham. At the center of it all is Cillian Murphy as Thomas Shelby, a war veteran turned gang leader navigating the dangerous landscape of crime and power. However, while the series is steeped in historical elements, the reality of the Peaky Blinders gang is a story rooted in a different era.
The real Peaky Blinders emerged long before the show’s 1920s setting. In fact, their origins trace back to the 1870s when a youth gang arose amidst economic hardship in Birmingham. Just like their American counterparts, these young men resorted to crime in a desperate bid for survival. A mix of gambling, robbery, and violence characterized their existence, with the anti-Irish sentiment fueling much of their activity.
Historian Barbara Weinberger highlights that these youth gangs formed as a response to frustration and aggression in urban settings, leading to a culture of gang warfare. The distinctive style—modelled with peaked hats—indeed gave the gang its name. It’s a far cry from the organized crime family depicted in the series, where the Shelbys dominate the story.
While the show simplifies the complex web of the real Peaky Blinders—often depicting them as a singular crime family—the truth is far more fragmented. There were numerous gangs operating during this period, and not all of them shared the familial loyalty portrayed in the series. As the century progressed, the gang culture began to dissipate, influenced by the rise of sports and arts which diverted young men away from a life of crime.
The series, while drawing on real history, also invents intriguing characters. For example, the character of Thomas Shelby likely finds its roots in Thomas Gilbert, a known figure among the original gang members, whose exploits made headlines. Alongside Gilbert, names like Henry Lightfoot and Billy Kimber were notable figures, their lives intertwining with the gritty underbelly of Birmingham.
The show does a commendable job of incorporating historical personalities. Real-life political figures, such as Oswald Mosley and Winston Churchill, find themselves woven into the fabric of the story, although timelines and events are creatively altered for dramatic effect. The introduction of characters based on historical figures, like Jack Nelson modeled after Joseph Kennedy Sr., adds to the intrigue, making the narrative feel grounded in reality, even when it strays from historical accuracy.
One significant historical theme the series explores is the impact of the tuberculosis epidemic during the early 20th century. Tommy Shelby’s battle with a misdiagnosed illness poignantly reflects the challenges people faced at that time. The show mirrors the real suffering of families during the TB crisis, highlighting the misconceptions and remedies that often caused more harm than good.
While Peaky Blinders takes artistic liberties, enhancing the drama with glamor and exaggerated ambitions, it nevertheless brings forth an engaging story that resonates deeply with viewers. Its exploration of ambition, trauma, and the quest for power offers a compelling narrative that transcends mere historical recount.
In conclusion, Peaky Blinders may not be entirely faithful to the historical facts but brilliantly captures the spirit and essence of an era marked by struggle and strife. This blend of fact and fiction has ultimately created a rich tapestry that continues to enthrall audiences worldwide, sparking interest in the true stories that inspired this iconic series.