The Killers

“The Killers” is set in the 1920s, a tumultuous and transformative era in American history. It was a decade marked by significant historical events, cultural shifts, and unique societal dynamics that contribute to the richness of Hemingway’s narrative.

One of the most defining features of the 1920s was the nationwide implementation of Prohibition. Enforced by the 18th Amendment, Prohibition outlawed the production, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages, leading to the closure of bars, saloons, and taverns across the nation. The belief was that by restricting access to alcohol, a range of social issues could be mitigated. However, Prohibition led to a surge in organized crime, as the mob saw immense profitability in the clandestine production and distribution of alcohol. Chicago, in particular, emerged as a hub of criminal activity, housing infamous figures like Al Capone and Dutch Schultz, who engaged in alcohol smuggling and other illegal services.

Hemingway himself spent time in Chicago as a young man, returning from his service in World War I. His stay in the city coincided with the early years of Prohibition, and his work as a freelance reporter and editor exposed him to this criminal world. The character of