Al Capone, a name synonymous with crime and charisma, earned a host of nicknames that reflected his personality, power, and influence.
Each Al Capone nickname tells a story of the man behind the legend, giving insight into his life and the impact he had on American history. Let’s uncover the origins and meanings of these nicknames.
Scarface: The Mark of Infamy
The nickname “Scarface” is perhaps the most recognizable, encapsulating both Capone’s dangerous image and his vulnerability.
Al Capone received the scars that earned him this moniker during a barroom brawl in Brooklyn. The incident involved a dispute over a woman, and the aggressor slashed Capone’s face with a razor. This permanent reminder became his most defining physical feature.
Despite its grim origin, Capone was reportedly embarrassed by the name.
Among friends and associates, he preferred to explain the scars as “war wounds” from military service—a tale that held no truth since he was never in the armed forces.
The name, however, stuck, largely due to sensationalist media and his rise in the public eye.
Capone’s scars became a symbol of his toughness and resilience, helping to craft his dangerous, larger-than-life persona. Ironically, his close associates referred to him affectionately as “Snorky,” a far cry from the intimidating “Scarface.”
Snorky: The Dapper Don
The nickname “Snorky” reveals an unexpected side of Capone. Among his friends, it was a term of endearment that highlighted his sense of style and sophistication. In 1920s slang, “Snorky” meant elegant or sharp-dressed, and Capone fit the description perfectly.
Capone took great pride in his appearance, often seen wearing custom-tailored suits, expensive jewelry, and a confident smile.
His charisma and polished demeanor contrasted sharply with his ruthless criminal enterprises. This nickname also humanizes Capone, showing that even a feared gangster could have a softer, more relatable side.
The media rarely used this name, preferring to portray Capone as a menacing figure. However, within his inner circle, “Snorky” symbolized a man who commanded respect not just through power but also through charm and personal style.
The Big Fellow: A Boss’s Identity
Among his criminal network, Capone was often called “The Big Fellow.” This nickname underscored his position as the undisputed leader of the Chicago Outfit, a sprawling criminal organization that controlled bootlegging, gambling, and other illicit activities during Prohibition.
“The Big Fellow” wasn’t just a reflection of his physical stature but also his metaphorical size in the underworld. Capone’s influence extended far beyond Chicago, as he cultivated relationships with corrupt officials and other criminal syndicates across the country.
The nickname symbolized his role as a father figure to his men, someone who provided protection, resources, and direction.
This moniker also reflected Capone’s ego and pride. He relished being at the top and often referred to himself as a businessman rather than a criminal, projecting the image of a legitimate entrepreneur.
Public Enemy No. 1: America’s Most Wanted
Capone earned the title “Public Enemy No. 1” as his criminal empire expanded and his public image deteriorated. By the late 1920s, his activities had drawn national attention, and he became the face of organized crime in America.
This nickname was formalized in 1930 when the Chicago Crime Commission labeled him as such in their efforts to combat organized crime. The title added to Capone’s notoriety and cemented his place in history as a symbol of lawlessness during Prohibition.
Despite the ominous connotations of this name, Capone often dismissed it, claiming he was simply providing a service that people wanted. It also signaled the beginning of his downfall, as law enforcement ramped up efforts to bring him to justice.
The King of the Chicago Underworld
Capone’s dominance in the criminal world earned him the title “The King of the Chicago Underworld.” This nickname emphasized his unrivaled control over the city’s illegal activities.
Capone’s rise to power was marked by both strategic alliances and brutal violence. He eliminated rivals with precision, often using fear to maintain his grip on Chicago. His wealth and influence allowed him to operate with near-impunity for years, despite his criminal activities being an open secret.
This nickname highlights the duality of Capone’s reign: while he ruled through terror, he also gained public sympathy by donating to charities and helping the poor during the Great Depression.
Scarred Angel
The term “Scarred Angel” was a lesser-known nickname that juxtaposed Capone’s violent nature with his acts of generosity. While his scarred face evoked fear, his charitable efforts earned him admiration from the less fortunate.
Capone often portrayed himself as a Robin Hood figure, donating food and money to struggling families. This nickname reflects the complex legacy of a man who was both feared and loved.
Big Al
“Big Al” was a nickname that encapsulated Capone’s larger-than-life presence. It was often used by those who admired or feared him, acknowledging his charisma and influence.
This name also signified Capone’s personal charm, which he used to cultivate alliances and gain public support, even as his criminal activities wreaked havoc.
Al Brown: The Alias of Anonymity
To escape law enforcement, Capone frequently used the alias “Al Brown.” This nickname reflects his cunning and adaptability as he navigated the challenges of his criminal career.
Capone used this alias during his travels, especially when staying in high-profile hotels where his presence might otherwise attract attention.
The Beer Baron of Chicago
During Prohibition, Capone earned the nickname “The Beer Baron of Chicago” for his dominance in the illegal alcohol trade. His network supplied speakeasies across the city, making him a fortune.
This nickname underscores Capone’s entrepreneurial skills and his ability to capitalize on the social climate of the era.
The Napolean of Crime
Capone was occasionally referred to as “The Napoleon of Crime,” drawing comparisons to the French leader’s ambition and strategic mind. The name reflects Capone’s tactical brilliance in building and maintaining his empire.
Conclusion
Al Capone’s nicknames provide a window into his multifaceted personality, from his dangerous reputation to his charismatic leadership. Each name tells a story, reflecting both the man and the myth. Whether feared as “Scarface” or admired as “The Big Fellow,” Capone’s legacy remains etched in history as one of America’s most notorious figures.
FAQs
- What was Al Capone’s most famous nickname?
His most famous nickname was “Scarface,” referencing the scars on his face from a bar fight. - Why was Al Capone called ‘Snorky’?
“Snorky” was a slang term for someone stylish, and it reflected Capone’s sharp-dressed appearance. - What does ‘The Big Fellow’ signify?
It signifies his role as the leader of the Chicago Outfit and his dominance in organized crime. - How did Capone earn the title ‘Public Enemy No. 1’?
The Chicago Crime Commission labeled him as such due to his criminal activities and public notoriety. - What does ‘The Beer Baron of Chicago’ mean?
It refers to his control over Chicago’s illegal alcohol trade during Prohibition. - Was ‘Scarred Angel’ a common nickname for Capone?
No, it was less common but highlighted the duality of his feared yet charitable persona.