Five Families

Synopsis

This extensively researched account of the fabled New York mob figures provides the most comprehensive history of the city's criminal empires that have intimidated, killed and fleeced Americans and confounded law enforcement for over 100 years.

Summary

Chapter 1: Five Families

The book begins by introducing the "Five Families" of organized crime in New York City: the Genovese, Gambino, Lucchese, Bonanno, and Colombo families. These families control various criminal enterprises, including gambling, extortion, racketeering, and drug trafficking.

Example: The Genovese family, led by Vincent Gigante, is known for its involvement in loansharking, illegal gambling, and murder.

Chapter 2: The Genovese Family

This chapter delves into the history, structure, and operations of the Genovese family. It traces the family's origins to Charles "Lucky" Luciano and Vito Genovese and discusses its violent and ruthless tactics.

Example: In the 1950s, the Genovese family was involved in the infamous "Apalachin Meeting," where top organized crime leaders were arrested.

Chapter 3: The Gambino Family

The chapter examines the Gambino family, focusing on its boss, Carlo Gambino. It describes the family's involvement in construction, labor unions, and garment manufacturing.

Example: In the 1960s, the Gambino family controlled the powerful Teamsters Union in New York City.

Chapter 4: The Lucchese Family

This chapter explores the Lucchese family, known in the past for its ties to gambling and the garment industry. It discusses the family's involvement in labor racketeering and its alliances with other criminal organizations.

Example: In the 1970s, the Lucchese family had a strong grip on the concrete industry in New York City.

Chapter 5: The Bonanno Family

The chapter focuses on the Bonanno family, detailing its complex history and violent leadership. It discusses the family's involvement in drug trafficking and its alliances with other mafia groups.

Example: In the 1980s, the Bonanno family was involved in a bitter power struggle that led to multiple murders.

Chapter 6: The Colombo Family

The chapter examines the Colombo family, known for its long history of instability and violent feuds. It discusses the family's involvement in extortion and its struggle to maintain power.

Example: In the 1990s, the Colombo family was torn apart by a series of bloody internal wars.

Chapter 7: The Decline and Fall

The book concludes by discussing the decline and fall of the Five Families in the late 20th century. It examines the factors that led to their downfall, including law enforcement efforts, government investigations, and internal conflicts.

Example: In the 1980s, the government launched a series of prosecutions that successfully convicted numerous high-ranking mafia bosses.