The Assassination Attempt on Frank Costello
On a fateful day in 1957, infamous gangster Frank Costello experienced a chilling moment of peril when rival mobsters plotted an assassination against him. Known as the "Prime Minister of the Underworld," Costello was a key figure in organized crime and had made both allies and enemies within the mafia. The attempt on his life sparked a showdown among the powerful families vying for control in the underbelly of New York City.
Who Was Frank Costello?
Frank Costello was born in 1891 in Laurenzana, Italy, before immigrating to the United States. His rise through the ranks of organized crime was marked by his cunning and intelligence, ultimately leading him to become a notable leader in the Luciano crime family. Known for his charisma and shrewd business acumen, Costello was revered and feared but found himself caught in the web of competing factions.
The Tensions Leading Up to the Attempt
By the mid-1950s, tensions among mob families were escalating, driven by power struggles and shifting allegiances. Costello’s growing influence put him at odds with rivals, particularly Vito Genovese, who sought to eliminate him as a competitor. The fray came to a head when Genovese’s associates orchestrated a hit aimed directly at Costello.
Details of the Attack
The assassination attempt occurred outside of Costello's apartment in New York City. As he surfaced from his vehicle, shots rang out. Miraculously, Costello survived, having been shot in the head, though he remained conscious. It is believed that a combination of luck and possibly the involvement of a passerby prevented the assassination from being successful.
Consequences of the Attack
The failure of this assassination attempt not only reinforced Costello’s status but also intensified the ongoing conflict within organized crime circles. Following the event, Costello became more cautious, altering his routines and dealings while remaining a powerful figure in the underworld.
The Reflection of Organized Crime in 1957
This assassination attempt symbolizes the intense rivalries and violence that permeated organized crime during the 1950s. It reflected a turbulent period where loyalty could quickly change, and survival depended on cunning and brutality. Costello’s brush with death was just one example of the perilous existence of mob figures during this era.
Fun Fact
Frank Costello’s Interesting Fact
Despite surviving multiple assassination attempts, Frank Costello lived until 1973, ultimately retiring from the underworld instead of dying in violent circumstances, which is a rarity among mobsters of his time.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on Frank Costello
For deeper exploration into the life of this notorious gangster, consider reading The Costello Tapes by Louis Ferrante and Wiseguys by Nicholas Pileggi. Both books offer fascinating insights into the world of organized crime.
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