BONNOT GANG Meaning and
Definition
-
The Bonnot Gang refers to an infamous French criminal organization that operated during the early 20th century. It was active from 1911 to 1912 and was named after its leader, Jules Bonnot. The gang, also known as the Bonnot Gang of Illegalists, is considered one of the earliest examples of modern-day anarchist banditry.
The Bonnot Gang predominantly targeted banks and wealthy individuals, carrying out daring heists and committing armed robberies. What set them apart from other criminal organizations at that time was their use of automobiles as an essential part of their operations. They utilized fast cars and motorcycles to carry out their crimes and skillfully evaded capture by law enforcement. This innovative approach to crime was an early precursor to the concept of the "gangster getaway car" that would later become a staple in numerous crime films.
Another notable feature of the Bonnot Gang was their anarchist ideology. They claimed to fight against the oppressive capitalist system and aimed to redistribute wealth among the lower classes. Their actions were often accompanied by powerful propaganda, as they sought to promote their revolutionary ideals and inspire the working class to rise against the ruling elites.
Despite their short-lived existence, the Bonnot Gang left a significant impact on both criminal history and anarchist movements. Their audacious crimes and romanticized outlaw image have made them enduring figures in popular culture and sources of fascination for historians and criminologists alike.
Etymology of BONNOT GANG
The term "Bonnot Gang" derived from the name of a notorious criminal gang that emerged in France in the early 20th century. The gang was named after its leader, Jules Bonnot. Born in 1876, Jules Bonnot was a French anarchist who formed a gang of criminals in 1911, primarily known for their high-profile, violent robberies and daring escape attempts.
There isn't any specific etymology behind the term "Bonnot Gang" other than it being named after its leader. The gang became famous due to their audacious criminal activities, especially their pioneering use of automobiles during robberies, which was relatively new at the time. Their actions and reputation made the label "Bonnot Gang" widely recognized, and subsequently, it became associated with the criminal activities of the group.
