In Martin Scorsese’s Gangs of New York, which historical event ends the film’s main conflict?

The New York City draft riots end the main conflict in Martin Scorsese’s Gangs of New York.

The riots took place in New York City from July 11 to July 16, 1863, during the American Civil War. They began after enforcement of the Enrollment Act, which created a military draft, and became a violent uprising shaped by class resentment, racism, and opposition to the war.

In the film, the riots provide the historical climax to the rivalry between Amsterdam Vallon, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, and Bill “The Butcher” Cutting, played by Daniel Day-Lewis. Their personal conflict unfolds in the Five Points neighborhood, while the wider city is transformed by war and political power struggles.

The movie dramatizes real history and uses fictionalized characters alongside figures such as William “Boss” Tweed. The draft riots should not be confused with the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg, which occurred during the same month but in Pennsylvania.