Top 10 Things You Didn't Know About The Thompson Machine Gun

Published on July 3, 2021
Duration: 4:58

This video explores 10 lesser-known facts about the iconic Thompson submachine gun. It covers its original design intent for WWI trench warfare, the actual designers behind the weapon, its various marketing names, and its widespread adoption by diverse groups including law enforcement, criminals, and the military. The entry also details its use by the US Postal Service and Marines, its infamous association with organized crime, and the key differences between the M1928A1 and M1A1 variants.

Quick Summary

The Thompson submachine gun, originally designed for WWI trench warfare, was never used in that conflict as its completion coincided with the war's end. It was developed by Oscar Payne, Theodore Tickoff, and George Goyle, and known by nicknames like 'Tommy Gun' and 'Chicago Typewriter' due to its widespread use by various groups.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Thompson Submachine Gun
  2. 00:50Fact 1: Original WWI Design, Never Used
  3. 01:03Fact 2: The True Designers
  4. 01:22Fact 3: Early Marketing Names
  5. 01:45Fact 4: Nicknames of the Tommy Gun
  6. 01:59Fact 5: U.S. Postal Service Purchase
  7. 02:19Fact 6: First Military Use (Banana Wars)
  8. 02:35Fact 7: First Chicago Crime Use
  9. 02:55Fact 8: Mobster Modifications
  10. 03:14Fact 9: WWII Variants (M1928A1 vs M1A1)
  11. 03:46Fact 10: Global Variants and Calibers
  12. 04:14Conclusion and Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the Thompson submachine gun originally designed, and was it used in World War I?

The Thompson submachine gun was originally designed for World War I trench warfare. However, its design was completed just two days before the war ended, meaning it was never actually used in combat during WWI.

Who were the primary designers of the Thompson submachine gun?

While John T. Thompson envisioned the submachine gun, the core design work was carried out by Theodore Tickoff, George Goyle, and Oscar Payne. Oscar Payne is specifically credited with designing the firearm itself and its iconic drum magazine.

What were some of the early names for the Thompson submachine gun before it was widely known as the 'Thompson'?

During its development, the firearm was called 'The Annihilator' and marketed to the military as 'The Trench Broom.' It adopted the name 'Thompson machine gun' after struggling to find a post-war market under its initial, more aggressive designations.

What are some of the most common nicknames for the Thompson submachine gun?

The Thompson submachine gun is known by many nicknames, including the Tommy Gun, Chicago Typewriter, Chicago Machine Gun, Chicago Organ Grinder, The Trench Broom, The Trench Sweeper, The Drum Gun, and The Chopper. These names often reflect its appearance and widespread use.

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