Bumpy Johnson

Ellsworth Raymond "Bumpy" Johnson (October 31, 1905 – July 7, 1968) was an American mob boss and bookmaker in New York City's Harlem neighborhood. The main Harlem associate of the Genovese crime family, Johnson's criminal career has inspired films and television.

Early life

Johnson was born in Charleston, South Carolina on October 31, 1905. After his older brother, Willie, was accused of killing a white man, Johnson's parents sent him to live in Harlem with his aunt, who introduced him to the world of gambling.

Criminal career

Johnson's criminal career began with small-time jobs for William "Bub" Hewlett. After Hewlett's death, Johnson began working for Stephanie St. Clair, a numbers queen in Harlem. He quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming her chief enforcer.

In the 1940s, Johnson was imprisoned for drug trafficking. During his time in prison, he befriended future Genovese boss Frank Costello. Upon his release, Johnson returned to Harlem and became the main Harlem associate of the Genovese crime family.

Death and legacy

Johnson died on July 7, 1968, of heart failure. His life and criminal career have been the subject of several films and television series, including Hoodlum, American Gangster, and Godfather of Harlem.

See also

• Crime in New York City
• African Americans in New York City
• Organized crime in the United States

External links

• Bumpy Johnson at Biography.com