What We Can Learn from the Greatest Gangsters
The Loyalty of Tony “L’Anguille”
I recently watched an interview by Guillaume Pley on Legend, featuring Tony “L’Anguille” (The Eel), whose real name is Antoine Cossu, a notorious French gangster from Marseille, in France. For those who don’t know, Marseille was the epicenter of the “French connection” in the 70s and 80s. There is an excellent movie on Amazon Prime called “The Connection” with Jean Dujardin that you can watch with the 30-day free trial by using my referral link below (remark: I’ll earn a commission if you use that link):
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Coming back to Tony L’Anguille, his life was a whirlwind of audacious heists, daring escapes, and brushes with the law. But what struck me most was his unwavering loyalty, a trait sadly misdirected but nonetheless powerful.
Tony L’Anguille spent 28 years behind bars for various robberies, including banks and even a train. He was no stranger to the darker side of life, having associated with infamous figures like Francis le Belge and Pablo Escobar. Yet, throughout his criminal career, Tony L’Anguille adhered to a strict code of honor: never betray your accomplices.
In the interview, Tony L’Anguille recounted enduring torture rather than revealing the names of his associates. This unwavering loyalty, even in the face of extreme adversity, left a lasting impression on me. It’s a shame that such dedication and camaraderie weren’t channeled towards lawful pursuits. These individuals possess immense willpower and loyalty to their chosen “profession,” a testament to their character even if we don’t condone their actions.
Tony L’Anguille’s nickname, “The Eel,” is a testament to his ability to slip through the grasp of authorities and evade capture. He was known for his cunning and resourcefulness, always staying one step ahead of the law.
As I reflect on Tony L’Anguille’s extraordinary life, I realize that loyalty is a double-edged sword. It’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the bonds that can form even in the darkest of circumstances. And while Tony L’Anguille’s path was far from exemplary, his unwavering loyalty, though misplaced, is a quality we can all learn from and perhaps strive to cultivate in more positive ways. We’re not here to judge, but to understand the complexities of human nature and the potential for good that can exist even in the most unlikely places.
