Profiles In Eccentricity
“King of the Everglades” John Ashley And Fraudulently Chinese Magician Chung Ling Soo
Aug 22, 2024
John Ashley, the infamous 'King of the Everglades,' once ruled South Florida's criminal underworld, engaging in audacious bank heists and thrilling shootouts with police. His tale reveals the wild collaboration between crime and moonshining amidst the chaotic backdrop of the Everglades. Meanwhile, Chung Ling Soo, a magician of questionable cultural representation, faced a dangerous mishap during a performance. Their lives intertwine in a discussion of identity, rivalry, and the bizarre world of entertainment, leaving listeners both entertained and intrigued.
01:08:10
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- John Ashley, the 'King of the Everglades,' utilized his intimate knowledge of the swamp to evade law enforcement and thrive as a criminal.
- His gang's audacity during the Prohibition era included daring bank heists and public flaunting of their stolen goods, challenging local authorities.
Deep dives
Introduction to John Ashley: The Swamp Bandit
John Ashley, known as the 'King of the Everglades' or 'Swamp Bandit', was born in 1888 near Fort Myers, Florida. He grew up in poverty as one of nine children of a simple woodsman, learning skills like hunting and trapping essential for survival in the wild. Ashley gained notoriety for his infamous run-ins with law enforcement and his ability to evade capture due to his intimate knowledge of the swamp terrain. His early troubles with the law began when he was implicated in the murder of a Native American trapper, leading to a tumultuous life filled with crime and frequent arrests.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
