The
Thompson submachine gun is an American
submachine gun, invented by
John T. Thompson in 1918, that became infamous during the
Prohibition era. It was a common sight in the media of the time, being used by both law enforcement officers and criminals. The Thompson was also known informally as the "
Tommy Gun", "
Trench Broom", "
Trench Sweeper", "
Chicago Typewriter", "
Chicago Piano", "
Chicago Style", "
Chicago Organ Grinder", and "
The Chopper".