The American Mafia in the Early 20th Century

The American Mafia in the Early 20th century was the organized crime days that inspired movies like the Godfather, this era of organized crime was the height of power for the Mafia. The Mafia's main source of income during this specified time period was casino revenue and bootlegging liquor. The Mafia was composed of mostly first generation Italians, composing ten percent of New York City's population at the time. After a high source of income, the Mafia decided to get organized. The "family" was torn into two, resulting in a very bloody power struggle known as the Castellammarese Wars, during the late nineteen twenties. The Mafia's initiation ritual has not changed, a man must be "made" by killing someone and taking an oath to remain loyal and silent. Being a member of the family of crime was the only way to climb the hierarchy ladder of the Mafia. Italian origin was almost always necessary. There were many unspoken rules, such as never crossing another member of the mafia, or cheating on their wives or girlfriends. The Mafia influenced many police offers, politicians, and other public officials through bribery or other intimidating means. The Mafia has been organized and is involved with narcotics, money laundering, many large businesses, and other illegal activities.

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