“The Great Gatsby” is not based on Cincinnati, but the city plays a significant role in the story’s background. The connection between Cincinnati and “The Great Gatsby” lies in the character of George Remus, a real-life figure who was known as the “King of the Bootleggers.” Remus was a prominent bootlegger during the Prohibition era and operated out of Cincinnati, making it a hub for his illegal activities.
George Remus was an attorney turned bootlegger who gained immense wealth and power during the 1920s. He was known for his extravagant lifestyle, throwing lavish parties and owning multiple mansions. His rise to prominence as a bootlegger in Cincinnati was fueled by his ability to exploit legal loopholes and corrupt officials.
Remus’s story is believed to have inspired F. Scott Fitzgerald in creating the character of Jay Gatsby in “The Great Gatsby.” Both Remus and Gatsby were known for their opulent lifestyles, mysterious backgrounds, and involvement in illegal activities. Additionally, the setting of Gatsby’s parties and his pursuit of wealth and status mirror Remus’s own experiences.
Cincinnati’s connection to George Remus and the Prohibition era adds depth to the themes explored in “The Great Gatsby.” The novel delves into the pursuit of the American Dream, the corrupting influence of wealth, and the illusion of social mobility. Remus’s story, which unfolded in the same time period and involved similar themes, provides a real-life context that enriches the narrative.
The Cincinnati Library’s decision to designate “The Great Gatsby” as the selection for its On the Same Page program demonstrates the significance of George Remus’s story and its connection to the city. By exploring the parallels between Remus and Gatsby, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the Prohibition era and the societal issues it brought to the forefront.
While “The Great Gatsby” is not directly based on Cincinnati, the city’s association with George Remus, the “King of the Bootleggers,” adds a compelling layer to the novel’s themes and provides historical context to the story. Remus’s rise and fall as a bootlegger in Cincinnati mirrors the extravagant and mysterious life of Jay Gatsby, making the city an important backdrop for the events of the novel.