How a Prohibition bootlegger became the Prime Minister of the American underworld
In short: Frank Costello rose from a petty street criminal to the consigliere of the Luciano crime family. By mastering the art of political influence and slot machine distribution, he built a power base that survived federal investigations, assassination attempts, and the shifting tides of the National Crime Syndicate for decades.
Born Francesco Castiglia in 1891, the future crime boss arrived in New York City from Italy at age four. His ascent through the ranks of organized crime was defined by strategic alliances, most notably with Charlie 'Lucky' Luciano. Together, they navigated the lucrative era of Prohibition, forming the National Crime Syndicate in 1929 to minimize violent turf wars. Costello’s influence extended far beyond simple bootlegging; he became a master of political maneuvering, cultivating deep ties with Tammany Hall and various New York City officials to secure his operations.
Costello’s business acumen was perhaps best exemplified by his control of slot machines. By placing approximately 25,000 machines across New York and expanding into Louisiana through a partnership with Carlos Marcello, he generated millions in profit for the Luciano family. His ability to navigate the underworld was matched by his desire for legitimacy, often seeking to associate with high-profile figures. This pursuit of status occasionally led to disputed claims, such as his alleged business dealings with Joseph P. Kennedy Sr., which the Kennedy family consistently denied.
The 1951 Kefauver Committee hearings marked a turning point, as televised broadcasts of Costello’s nervous gestures and evasive testimony damaged his public standing. Following an assassination attempt by Vincent Gigante in 1957, ordered by rival Vito Genovese, Costello retired from active leadership. Yet, even in his final years, he remained a respected advisor to other bosses, operating from his Waldorf Astoria penthouse. Despite legal battles that stripped him of his citizenship and multiple prison sentences, Costello maintained his influence until his death in 1973, leaving behind a legacy as the 'Prime Minister of the Underworld'.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Frank Costello
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