The Gambino crime family. The name alone conjures images of sharp suits, smoky backrooms, and a life lived outside the law. But how did this notorious organization rise to power? Its roots trace back to the early 20th century and the infamous Lucky Luciano, who restructured the Italian-American Mafia.
The Gambino family, initially led by Vincent Mangano, gained its infamous moniker after Carlo Gambino took the helm in 1957. Gambino's shrewd leadership ushered in an era of unprecedented power and wealth. The family expanded its influence across various rackets, from construction and waste management to narcotics and loan sharking.
However, the good times wouldn't last forever. The rise of John Gotti in the 1980s, marked by flashy displays of wealth and brazen acts of violence, brought unwanted attention from law enforcement. Gotti's conviction and subsequent imprisonment signaled the beginning of the family's decline. While still active, the Gambino crime family is a shadow of its former self, a stark reminder of the risks and consequences inherent in a life of organized crime.
