The Unlikely Collaboration: How Lucky Luciano Helped the US Win World War II

TLDRCharles Luciano, the kingpin of organized crime, made a secret deal with the US government during World War II. This collaboration between the mafia and the US Army helped the US secure victory. Luciano's influence extended to the New York docks, which played a vital role in supplying Britain during the war. Despite being in jail, Luciano orchestrated a plan to protect the docks and track German spies. This unlikely collaboration between the US Army and the mob reveals the hidden history of World War II.

Key insights

🕵️Charles Luciano, the mob boss, struck a secret deal with the US government during World War II.

🚢The New York docks, controlled by Luciano's men, played a crucial role in supplying Britain during the war.

🔍US Navy agents tried to penetrate the docks to track German spies but were stonewalled by Luciano's control.

🔥The luxury liner, Normandy, was destroyed in a fire, leading to suspicions of German sabotage.

✌️Despite being in jail, Luciano orchestrated a plan to protect the docks and track German spies.

Q&A

What was the secret deal between Luciano and the US government?

The secret deal involved Luciano using his influence to protect the New York docks and track German spies in exchange for a reduced prison sentence.

How did Luciano's control of the New York docks help during the war?

The New York docks were vital in supplying Britain during the war. By controlling the docks, Luciano ensured the smooth flow of supplies and prevented German sabotage.

Why were US Navy agents unable to penetrate the docks?

Luciano's control over the docks meant that no one would cooperate with the Navy agents without his approval, effectively stonewalling their efforts.

What led to suspicions of German sabotage in the sinking of the Normandy?

The Normandy, a luxury liner being converted into a troop carrier, caught fire and sank. The scale of the emergency response and subsequent investigations raised suspicions of German sabotage.

How did Luciano orchestrate a plan to protect the docks while being in jail?

Even behind bars, Luciano had his men carry out his orders. He coordinated efforts to protect the docks and track German spies, demonstrating his continued influence and power.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Charles Luciano, known as Lucky Luciano, made a secret deal with the US government during World War II, despite being sentenced to 50 years in jail.

08:39The New York docks, controlled by Luciano's men, played a crucial role in supplying Britain during the war.

15:19US Navy agents tried to penetrate the docks to track German spies but were stonewalled due to Luciano's control.

16:31The luxury liner Normandy caught fire and sunk, leading to suspicions of German sabotage.

16:46Even in jail, Luciano orchestrated a plan to protect the docks and track German spies.