I have an idea for an alternate timeline where sword dueling continues among inner-city black gangs to the present day. While the practice was a relatively niche phenomenon that began amongst black officers after the Civil War, it continued underground as a part of black honor culture, with (illegal) spectator fighting continuing well into the early 20th century. However, the friction caused by black soldiers challenging their white peers to duels during WWI and WWII caused the Federal Government to crack down on dueling, and it soon became extinct. The practice was revived by Black Nationalists starting in the 60's, who began to view it as an important and distinctive part of black culture, with those not participating viewed as dishonorable and publically shamed.
The practice was actually encouraged by community leaders following the crack epidemic as a less lethal way to settle disputes between rival gangs, with the rights to deal drugs on particular corners settled by champion duels. These fights were generally to first blood, and deaths are neither expected nor uncommon. Both sides generally used the same type of sword, many of which were heirlooms dating back to the Civil War, with a preference for cavalry sabers. Although still technically illegal under US law, there are some jurisdictions where it is decriminalized.
Do you guys have any ideas for more world-building? I really like the idea of full-scale gang wars with katanas.
The practice was actually encouraged by community leaders following the crack epidemic as a less lethal way to settle disputes between rival gangs, with the rights to deal drugs on particular corners settled by champion duels. These fights were generally to first blood, and deaths are neither expected nor uncommon. Both sides generally used the same type of sword, many of which were heirlooms dating back to the Civil War, with a preference for cavalry sabers. Although still technically illegal under US law, there are some jurisdictions where it is decriminalized.
Do you guys have any ideas for more world-building? I really like the idea of full-scale gang wars with katanas.