Unlocking the Secrets of OBEs: Unraveling the Peaky Blinders Terminology
Tommy's OBE, short for Order of the British Empire, symbolizes a significant milestone in his life This prestigious honor catapulted him into the realm of politics, paving the way for his future success
Summary
Thomas Shelby's clever machinations lead the Peaky Blinders from low-level criminals to influential figures in society.
Tommy and the Blinders' ultimate objective is to achieve legitimacy, wherein Tommy is determined to establish a legitimate presence in both his business and personal endeavors. Securing a prestigious OBE through blackmail propels Tommy's political journey, granting him entry into England's upper class circles along with the admiration and recognition he deserves.
Thomas Shelby maneuvers with such skill and swiftness within the realm of British politics and law that both the characters in the show and the audience are left pondering the significance of an OBE in Peaky Blinders. Within the series, Tommy holds the position of de facto leader of the notorious crime gang, starting off as a mere group of small-time extortionists. Throughout the six seasons of Peaky Blinders, the gang rises from the depths of Birmingham's underworld to become influential players within the House of Parliament, with much of this success attributed to Tommy's cunning tactics.
Peaky Blinders expertly blends historical events with fictional elements in order to craft its violent, triumphant, and stylized narrative. A key objective for the show's creators is to instill legitimacy as the ultimate aim for Tommy and the Blinders. This concept is frequently debated among members of the family, as some believe it distances them from their criminal origins. Tommy goes to great lengths in his pursuit of legitimacy in England, focusing on establishing legal gambling and import/export operations. To the surprise of many in season 4, he even acquires an OBE.
OBE Means "Order Of The British Empire"
Tommy has requested and been granted the OBE, which stands for "Order of the British Empire". This prestigious British order of chivalry is bestowed upon individuals who are British nationals or citizens of the Commonwealth and have made significant contributions to the United Kingdom beyond civil service. Notably, it is not awarded for military actions or actions undertaken on behalf of the government.
The Order of the British Empire has five levels, with the highest being Knight Grand Cross or Dame Grand Cross (GBE), followed by Knight Commander or Dame Commander (KBE or DBE), Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE), Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE), and Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) (via Honours). Regardless of the level, each of these accolades is a deeply meaningful recognition for life.
Tommy's OBE Launched His Political Career
Tommy cunningly secures the OBE in a manner reminiscent of the audacious Peaky Blinders: through skillful manipulation. Leveraging his collaboration with the Russians, Tommy possesses incriminating evidence that implicates Winston Churchill in ordering him to carry out assassinations. Yet, the real treasure lies in the correspondence between King George and the White Russians, which reveals the King's complicity in plotting against the Soviets—a grave accusation. Seizing this opportunity, Tommy strikes a deal, vowing to destroy all such evidence if his family is pardoned and he is bestowed with the OBE by the King himself. Far from mere cheekiness, this clever ploy forms another integral part of Tommy's grand vision—legitimizing his enterprises and liberating his family from their humble origins.
Tommy Shelby orchestrates one of his most audacious plans, successfully acquiring an OBE. As a result, Peaky Blinders fast-forwards to the events of a year later. This prestigious honor not only grants Tommy official recognition within England's elite circle but also opens doors that were previously closed to him throughout his life. Remarkably, he even adopts a new accessory – a pair of glasses. Capitalizing on this newfound status, Tommy skillfully negotiates for genuine power, not just for himself but also for his family. His businesses are now above board, his fortune is astonishing, and he garners respect from every stratum of society.
In the Season 4 finale of Peaky Blinders, his OBE undoubtedly facilitates his nomination as a Labour MP candidate for the Birmingham South Constituency. The astonishment evident on his family members' faces during the voting process serves as a poignant representation of the remarkable journey undertaken by this former bookmaker in Peaky Blinders.
