What happened today in history?
What happened
today in history?
[ Mar 17 ]
Back

The Birth of Frank Calabrese: Notorious Mafia Hitman

The Early Life of Frank Calabrese

Frank Calabrese, also known as Frankie Breeze, was born on June 28, 1937, in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois. Growing up, Calabrese was exposed to the rough and tumble lifestyle that often accompanied urban life in Chicago during the mid-20th century. This environment would play a significant role in shaping his future, as he became involved with organized crime at a young age. The allure of power and wealth that came with being part of the mafia drew him in, setting the stage for his notorious career.

Frank Calabrese: From Youth to Mafia

As a young man, Frank Calabrese quickly rose through the ranks of the Chicago Outfit, a powerful mafia organization during the post-war period. His reputation as a ruthless hitman grew as he carried out numerous assignments for the mob. The violent world of organized crime became his calling, leaving a trail of fear and intimidation.

The Infamous Life of Frankie Breeze

The moniker Frankie Breeze became synonymous with violence and betrayal. Calabrese was not just a hitman; he was a central figure in mob operations, involved in various illegal activities such as extortion and loan sharking. Despite the risks, his loyalty to the mafia led him to commit heinous acts, which would later mark him as one of the most infamous figures in Chicago's criminal history.

Frank Calabrese's Later Years and Legacy

After years of living life on the edge, Calabrese's past caught up with him. In 2009, he was arrested and later convicted as a significant contributor to numerous murders during the height of mafia violence in Chicago. Despite his incarceration, Calabrese's legacy as a hitman remained formidable, reflecting the dark side of organized crime.

Calabrese's Impact on Organized Crime

The life of Frank Calabrese offers a deep insight into the inner workings of the mafia. His ability to evade law enforcement for decades is a testament to the complex nature of organized crime. As a pivotal player within the Chicago Outfit, Calabrese's story illustrates the brutal consequences of a life entrenched in crime.

The Consequences of a Notorious Life

While many feared him, Frank Calabrese eventually faced the full weight of the law. He passed away in 2012, but not before leaving behind a chilling legacy as one of Chicago's most notorious mafia hitmen.

Fun Fact: The Man Behind the Myth

Frank Calabrese’s Interesting Fact

Despite his notoriety, Frank Calabrese had a surprisingly mundane aspect to his life. He was known to enjoy spending time with his family, showcasing the duality of a man who was both a loving family member and a remorseless killer in the world of organized crime.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Frank Calabrese

For those intrigued by the life of Frank Calabrese, the book "The Outfit: The Role of Chicago's Underworld in the Shaping of Modern America" offers an in-depth look at mafia life and its influential figures, including Calabrese. Another compelling read is "Murder in the Family: The Story of the Calabrese Family", which delves into the legacies of mob families across America.