The Godfather of Crime: The Legendary Life of Vito Genovese

Vito Genovese, known as the "King of the Godfathers," was a legendary figure in the American underworld. As the boss of the Genovese crime family, he ruled over a vast criminal empire that spanned the United States and extended into Europe. Genovese's reign was marked by violence, greed, and a ruthless determination to maintain his power.

King of the Godfathers:: Jopseh Massino and the Fall of the Bonanno Crime Family

by Anthony M. DeStefano

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1580 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	398 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Early Life and Criminal Beginnings

Vito Genovese was born on November 27, 1897, in Risigliano, Italy. He immigrated to the United States with his family in 1913 and settled in New York City. As a teenager, Genovese became involved in petty crime and quickly rose through the ranks of the local Italian gangs.

The Castellammarese War

In the 1930s, Genovese played a prominent role in the Castellammarese War, a bloody power struggle within the New York underworld. He aligned himself with Salvatore Maranzano, the boss of the Castellammarese clan, and fought against the opposing faction led by Joe Masseria.

After Maranzano emerged victorious in the war, Genovese became a powerful figure within his organization. However, his ambition and desire for power led to a falling out with Maranzano.

The Murder of Maranzano

In September 1931, Genovese orchestrated the murder of Maranzano. With the help of his associates, he lured Maranzano to his office and brutally killed him. Genovese then seized control of Maranzano's organization and became the new boss of the Luciano crime family (later renamed the Genovese crime family).

Reign of Terror

Under Genovese's rule, the Luciano crime family became one of the most powerful criminal organizations in the United States. Genovese established a reign of terror, eliminating anyone who threatened his position. He ordered numerous murders, including the assassination of Albert Anastasia, the boss of the Gambino crime family.

Genovese's violent and ruthless tactics earned him the nickname "The Undertaker." He was feared and respected throughout the underworld, and his empire extended into a wide range of criminal activities, including racketeering, gambling, and narcotics trafficking.

The Apalachin Meeting and Imprisonment

In 1957, Genovese held a meeting of top crime bosses in Apalachin, New York. However, the meeting was raided by state police, leading to the arrest of Genovese and several other mob leaders.

Genovese was convicted of conspiracy to traffic narcotics and sentenced to 15 years in prison. He served nine years at the Atlanta Federal Penitentiary before being released in 1969.

Later Life and Death

After his release from prison, Genovese fled to Italy to avoid further prosecution. He lived in his hometown of Risigliano for the rest of his life. Vito Genovese died on February 14, 1969, at the age of 71.

Legacy

Vito Genovese remains one of the most notorious crime bosses in American history. His reign of terror and ruthless tactics earned him the reputation as the "King of the Godfathers." Genovese's life and career provide a glimpse into the dark and fascinating world of organized crime.

His legacy continues to haunt the underworld, serving as a reminder of the dangers and consequences of unchecked power and greed. Vito Genovese's name will forever be synonymous with the darkest and most violent chapters of American organized crime.

King of the Godfathers:: Jopseh Massino and the Fall of the Bonanno Crime Family

by Anthony M. DeStefano

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1580 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	398 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE