George 'Machine Gun Kelly' Barnes, a notorious gangster known for his criminal exploits during the Prohibition era, became a central figure in American organized crime. On the day of his surrender, the FBI was intensifying its efforts to apprehend high-profile criminals involved in bootlegging and kidnapping. Kelly had been evading capture amid an increasing crackdown on crime syndicates by federal authorities. The tense standoff in Memphis saw Kelly emerging from his hideout, unarmed, prompting the iconic phrase, "Don't shoot, G-Men!" which resonated in the media and contributed to the FBI's image as a formidable force against organized crime.

The context of Kelly's surrender cannot be overstated, as it came during a peak period of criminal activity when gangs were engaged in violent clashes and law enforcement struggled to maintain control. His arrest was not only a win for the FBI but also a notable moment in the public's perception of the agency while it was still developing its reputation. Kelly's moniker as 'Machine Gun' stemmed from his use of a Thompson submachine gun, further emphasizing the image of violence that accompanied his criminal lifestyle. Kelly's surrender, marked by his memorable shout, injected an element of folklore into the FBI's identity, softening the image of law enforcement during an era rife with tales of corruption and villainy.