The Mafia The mafia was started by Italian gangsters who came to America and became involved in illegal activities. The American Mafia branched off from the Sicilian Mafia which was powerful in Italy. The mafia in America originated in New York and other parts of the East coast during the 19th century. In the 1920's when there was a prohibition placed on alcohol, the ma
fia prospered. Through foreign connections mafia leaders were able to smuggle alcohol into the United states and sell it at a high profit. This was highly illegal but mafia leaders were willing to risk being fined or arrested to make a lot of money.
fia prospered. Through foreign connections mafia leaders were able to smuggle alcohol into the United states and sell it at a high profit. This was highly illegal but mafia leaders were willing to risk being fined or arrested to make a lot of money. The mafia also profited off of gambling, prostitution, and bootlegging. Mobs often fought for territory and respect which led to the rise in violence in cities such as Chicago. 
As the mafia grew, so did crime and violence rates. Gun fights and other acts of unlawful behavior occured daily leaving many people afraid for their lives. It is ironic how the purpose of prohibition was to lower crime rates by removing alcohol from the streets, but really it did the exact opposite. Gangsters were those men who were a members of mafia families and fought for money, power, and respect every day.
As the mafia grew, so did crime and violence rates. Gun fights and other acts of unlawful behavior occured daily leaving many people afraid for their lives. It is ironic how the purpose of prohibition was to lower crime rates by removing alcohol from the streets, but really it did the exact opposite. Gangsters were those men who were a members of mafia families and fought for money, power, and respect every day. 
Another good post. 75/75
ReplyDeleteMs. Donahue