What is plug uglies?

The Plug Uglies were a street gang in New York City in the mid-19th century. They were known for their violence, especially towards rival gang members and police officers. The gang was primarily made up of Irish immigrants and their descendants, who were often marginalized and discriminated against in American society.

The name "Plug Uglies" is said to have originated from the slang term "plug-ugly," which was used to describe someone who was unattractive or rough-looking. The gang members were known for their distinctive style of dress, which included wide-brimmed hats and brightly colored scarves.

The Plug Uglies had a strong presence in the Five Points neighborhood of Manhattan, which was a notorious slum known for its crime and poverty. They were involved in various criminal activities, such as robbery, extortion, and racketeering.

The gang's reign of terror eventually came to an end in the late 19th century, as law enforcement cracked down on gang activity in New York City. The legacy of the Plug Uglies lives on in popular culture, with references to the gang appearing in books, movies, and TV shows about the history of organized crime in America.