Al Capone was one of the most notorious gangsters of the 20th century, but what many don’t know is that he had an infectious smile that could light up a room. Even in his mugshots, the infamous criminal couldn’t stop grinning. But what was the secret behind his cheerful facial feature?
The Infectious Cheer of Al Capone’s Smile
Despite his criminal activities and ruthless reputation, Al Capone’s smile was a shining beacon of positivity. It was a well-known fact that Capone’s grin could instantly disarm anyone, from reporters to law enforcement officials. Even when he was being arrested, the gangster couldn’t resist flashing his pearly whites. Some speculate that his infectious smile was a way to win over people, to show them that he was more than just a ruthless criminal.
Uncovering the Secret behind Al Capone’s Infectious Smile!
So, what was the secret behind Al Capone’s infectious smile? Some historians believe that it could be attributed to his battle with syphilis. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause dementia, blindness, and paralysis if left untreated. However, one of the strangest symptoms of syphilis is a condition called “facial nerve palsy,” which can cause facial muscles to weaken or become paralyzed. In Capone’s case, it’s possible that the disease affected the muscles that control his frown, leaving him with a permanent grin.
Conclusion
Despite his criminal activities, Al Capone’s smile remains one of his most memorable features. It’s a testament to the power of positivity and the ability to find joy in even the darkest of situations. Whether it was a result of syphilis or just his natural disposition, Capone’s infectious smile will always be a part of his legacy.
Al Capone, the notorious gangster and mob boss of the 1920’s, had one distinctive, cheery facial feature- a dramatic smile. This smile was seen as he posed with gang members, in his mug shots, and during his trial, and was often remarked on by journalists who wrote about him.
However, a new report suggests that this jovial smile may have been caused by Syphilis. The report states that the scars associated with Syphilis often result in permanent facial changes and a fixed smile. It is possible, the report claims, that this is the true source of Capone’s perpetual smirk.
That Capone had a chronic illness was known to many of his contemporaries, from whom he kept the true nature of his condition a secret. It has been suggested that the reason for his secrecy was to conceal his embarrassing condition, particularly considering the stigma that surrounded it at the time.
Capone’s smile became so iconic that it has since been reported on by journalists and crime aficionados. This smile is said to have been the inspiration for actors playing Capone in films, such as Robert De Niro in The Untouchables.
Whether it was his 100-watt smirk or Syphilis at work, Capone’s happiness- whatever it’s origin- still lives on in the popular imagination of many.