National Crime Syndicate

What were the Five Families of the New York Mafia?

The Five Families are the five Italian-American Mafia crime families that have controlled organised crime in New York City since the 1930s: the Gambino, Genovese, Lucchese, Colombo and Bonanno families. Together they reported to the Commission — the governing body of the American Mafia established by Lucky Luciano in 1931.

Who was the most powerful mob boss in American history?

Carlo Gambino is widely considered the most powerful mob boss in American history. As boss of the Gambino crime family from 1957 until his natural death in 1976, he accumulated more power and influence than any other figure in the American Mafia without ever spending a day in prison.

What was Murder Incorporated?

Murder Incorporated was the enforcement arm of the American Mafia, operating between 1929 and 1941. Run by Louis Lepke Buchalter with Albert Anastasia as its chief operational figure, it is believed to have carried out between 400 and 1,000 murders across the United States.

What is omerta?

Omerta is the Mafia's code of silence — a strict prohibition against cooperating with law enforcement, traditionally punishable by death. Broken most famously by Joseph Valachi in 1963, Henry Hill in 1980 and Sammy Gravano in 1991.

Who founded the American Mafia Commission?

Lucky Luciano founded the American Mafia Commission in 1931 following the Castellammarese War. The Commission served as the governing body of organised crime in the United States, resolving disputes between families and authorising major decisions including the killing of bosses.