The main events include the intense gang rivalries in the Five Points area of New York. There were battles over territory, power, and resources. The nativist gangs fought against the immigrant gangs. For example, the Dead Rabbits and the Bowery Boys had numerous violent clashes.
The Gangs of New York is mainly a work of fiction. Although it's inspired by some elements of the historical period it portrays, the specific events and characters are largely created for the movie.
Definitely not. 'Gangs of New York' is a work of fiction that incorporates some aspects of the historical context but is not a true account of specific real-life events or people.
One of the key figures was Bill 'The Butcher' Poole. He was a nativist gang leader who was known for his violent and brutal ways. He was a central figure in the gang rivalries in the Five Points area.