1. The Hindu Thuggee:

Origins and Etymology: The term "Thuggee" is derived from the Hindi word 'thag', which translates to 'deceiver'. This term traces its roots further back to the Sanskrit words 'sthaga', meaning 'cunning', and 'sthagati', meaning 'he conceals'.

Modus Operandi: Thuggees were notorious for their large-scale robberies and murders. They primarily targeted travelers, integrating themselves into travel groups, gaining trust, and then striking at an opportune moment. Their signature method of murder was strangulation, using a handkerchief or noose.

Religious Beliefs: Central to the Thuggee belief system was the goddess Kali, the Hindu deity of destruction. They considered themselves as her devout followers and believed their acts of murder were offerings to appease her. Rituals and ceremonies often accompanied their activities, further embedding their actions within a religious framework.

British Intervention: The British colonial authorities, recognizing the threat posed by the Thuggees, established the Thuggee and Dacoity Department within the Indian Police Service. This department was dedicated to the eradication of this cult. Over time, the Thuggees were romanticized in British literature, often depicted as both cunning and ruthless.

2. Italian Thugs during Machiavelli’s Time:

Renaissance Italy: The Renaissance period in Italy was marked by political intrigue, with various factions and influential families, like the Medicis, vying for control. Cities like Florence became epicenters of power struggles.

Bravi and Mercenaries: To maintain and expand their influence, families employed 'bravi' - essentially hired muscle or thugs. These bravi were tasked with intimidating rivals, ensuring loyalty, and sometimes, assassination.

Machiavelli's Insights: Niccolò Machiavelli, a diplomat and philosopher of the era, penned "The Prince", a treatise on power dynamics. He discussed the utility and pitfalls of using mercenaries and bravi, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and the dangers of relying too heavily on hired forces.

3. Modern Gangster Thugs:

Prohibition Era: The early 20th century, especially during Prohibition in the US, saw the rise of organized crime. Figures like Al Capone emerged, running vast criminal enterprises spanning bootlegging, gambling, and more.

Cinema's Influence: The allure of the gangster life was further popularized by Hollywood. Films such as "The Godfather" and "Scarface" painted a glamorous, albeit violent, picture of life in the underworld.

Prison Gangs: The prison system became a breeding ground for gangs. Groups like the Aryan Brotherhood originated within prison walls, initially forming for mutual protection but later expanding their influence outside.

The Ku Klux Klan: While not a traditional gang, the KKK wielded significant power, especially post-Civil War. This white supremacist group, though politically motivated, employed tactics of intimidation and violence akin to gang activities.

Modern Gang Alliances: The latter half of the 20th century saw the formation of alliances like the FOLKS Nation and People’s Nation. These alliances brought together various gangs under larger banners, often for mutual benefit and protection.

Hispanic Gang Rivalries: The Nortenos and Surenos, major Hispanic gang alliances from Northern and Southern California respectively, have a storied rivalry. This rivalry, symbolized by colors red and blue, even manifested in the "War of the Shoes", highlighting the depth of their animosity.

Conclusion: The concept of "thuggery", from the ancient roads of India to the modern streets of America, showcases a constant human struggle for power and influence. The methods and motivations might evolve, but the underlying themes of violence, intimidation, and the quest for dominance remain ever-present.