Organized Crime Figure. Ellsworth Raymond "Bumpy" Johnson was a notorious gangster who operated one of the largest numbers rackets headquartered in Harlem, NY. His criminal career spanned three decades from the early 1930s until his death in 1968. He was one of the first African Americans of his era to become a millionaire, albeit through criminal activities. In his 62 years, he served a little more than 30 behind bars. While in prison he developed a passion for writing poetry and studying history and philosophy. He even managed to have several of his poems published after his death. On July 7, 1968, while dining with a friend, he suffered a fatal heart attack. He was transported to Harlem Hospital where he was pronounced dead. He was 62 at the time of his death and was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery.
Organized Crime Figure. Ellsworth Raymond "Bumpy" Johnson was a notorious gangster who operated one of the largest numbers rackets headquartered in Harlem, NY. His criminal career spanned three decades from the early 1930s until his death in 1968. He was one of the first African Americans of his era to become a millionaire, albeit through criminal activities. In his 62 years, he served a little more than 30 behind bars. While in prison he developed a passion for writing poetry and studying history and philosophy. He even managed to have several of his poems published after his death. On July 7, 1968, while dining with a friend, he suffered a fatal heart attack. He was transported to Harlem Hospital where he was pronounced dead. He was 62 at the time of his death and was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery.
Bio by: Dione Wilson
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