Before Frank Lucas is a household name in Harlem, Ellsworth “Bumpy” Johnson runs the city. During the Prohibition and Depression eras, Bumpy rises through the ranks of Stephanie St. Clair’s gang. Bumpy leads the gang in a war against Dutch Schultz’s gang, but Bumpy needs the help of mob boss Lucky Luciano to win. When Bumpy becomes the Godfather of Harlem, he places his trust in a young man called Flash Walker. The decision costs Bumpy dearly.

Check out these great books about Frank Lucas, Bumpy Johnson, and Harlem crime:

“Harlem Godfather” by Mayme Johnson and Karen E. Quinones Miller

“Original Gangster” by Frank Lucas and Aliya S. King

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