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American Mafia History
Discuss the history and the development of the American Mafia in the United States. Include in your analysis how it is similar and/or different in its operation today in the United States.
Write paragraph of at least 300 words (not including reference information). You must put the word count at the end of your discussion.
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American Mafia History
The American Mafia, also known as La Cosa Nostra, has its roots in the waves of Italian immigration to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Originating from Sicilian and southern Italian criminal organizations, the Mafia found fertile ground in American cities with large immigrant populations, especially New York City, Chicago, and New Orleans. Initially, these organizations provided protection and services to immigrant communities that were often marginalized by mainstream society. However, by the 1920s, the Mafia evolved into a powerful criminal syndicate, capitalizing on the Prohibition era’s lucrative opportunities in illegal alcohol distribution. During this time, figures like Al Capone and Charles “Lucky” Luciano rose to national prominence, expanding their influence through violence, corruption, and strategic alliances.
The Mafia reached the height of its power in the mid-20th century, operating through a hierarchical structure with “families” controlled by bosses and supported by capos, soldiers, and associates. Their operations included extortion, loan sharking, illegal gambling, labor racketeering, and drug trafficking. One of the most significant developments was the formation of “The Commission” in 1931, established by Luciano to manage disputes and maintain order among the various families. This national syndicate ensured cooperation and limited internal conflicts, contributing to the Mafia’s long-lasting influence.
In contrast, the Mafia’s operations today are far less dominant. Due to aggressive law enforcement tactics, the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, and the use of surveillance and informants, many high-ranking members have been convicted or turned state’s evidence. The rise of other organized crime groups—such as Russian, Asian, and Latin American cartels—has also diluted the Mafia’s control. Today, while the Mafia still exists, its activities are more discreet and localized. It continues to operate in areas like illegal gambling and loan sharking, but without the vast influence it once wielded. Thus, while the core structure and values remain, modern operations are smaller in scale and less publicly visible.
References:
Abadinsky, H. (2016). Organized crime (11th ed.). Cengage Learning.
Critchley, D. (2009). The origin of organized crime in America: The New York City Mafia, 1891–1931. Routledge.
Finckenauer, J. O. (2007). Mafia and organized crime: A beginner’s guide. Oneworld Publications.
Federal Bureau of Investigation. (n.d.). Organized crime. https://www.fbi.gov/investigate/organized-crime
Raab, S. (2005). Five Families: The rise, decline, and resurgence of America’s most powerful Mafia empires. Thomas Dunne Books.