Unveiling The Life And Legacy Of Bugsy Siegel (1906-1947)

Bugsy Siegel is a name that echoes through the annals of American crime history. Known as a key figure in the development of Las Vegas as a gambling hub, Siegel led a life filled with glamour, crime, and ultimately, tragedy. His journey from Brooklyn's streets to the bright lights of Las Vegas is not just a tale of ambition but also one of ruthless determination and betrayal.

Who Was Bugsy Siegel?

Bugsy Siegel, born Benjamin Siegel on February 28, 1906, was a notorious gangster who made his mark in the organized crime scene of the United States. His ventures in bootlegging, gambling, and violent retribution allowed him to build a criminal empire. He is most famously known for opening the Flamingo Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, a project that symbolized his ambition to create a gambling paradise in the desert. Tragically, Siegel's life was cut short when he was murdered in 1947 at the age of 41.

Early Life

Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, Siegel was the son of Jewish immigrants and was raised in a neighborhood rife with crime. The atmosphere of violence and intimidation shaped his early years, leading him to a life of crime. As a teenager, he began extorting money from local vendors, displaying his knack for intimidation. His partnership with Meyer Lansky led to the creation of the Bugs-Meyer Gang, a group engaged in various criminal activities.

Criminal Activity

The 1920s marked a significant turning point for Siegel as he became intertwined with the national syndicate led by Mafia boss Charles "Lucky" Luciano. Known for his unpredictable behavior, Siegel earned the nickname "Bugsy." His involvement in organized crime deepened when he became one of the hitmen tasked with eliminating rival gangsters, including the infamous Joe "the Boss" Masseria.

By 1937, Siegel had shifted his operations to the West Coast, where he continued to expand his influence through gambling and other illicit enterprises. His extravagant lifestyle in Beverly Hills showcased his success and growing power within the criminal world.

Las Vegas and the Flamingo Hotel

Siegel's vision for Las Vegas materialized in the late 1930s when he began dating actress Virginia Hill, a partnership that was both glamorous and fraught with tension. Together, they aimed to transform Las Vegas into a gambling mecca. With financial backing from the Eastern crime syndicate, Siegel oversaw the construction of the Flamingo Hotel and Casino. Initially budgeted at $1.5 million, the costs ballooned due to Siegel's mismanagement and alleged theft.

The Flamingo Hotel opened in December 1946, but it faced immediate challenges. The financial strain and Siegel's controversial handling of funds created friction with his syndicate partners, leading to increased scrutiny and mounting pressure on him.

Death

On June 20, 1947, Siegel's life ended violently when multiple gunshots were fired into the living room of Virginia Hill's Beverly Hills home. The circumstances surrounding his death pointed towards a hit ordered by his own syndicate, following a series of betrayals and financial disputes. His murder was a stark reminder of the violent world he had thrived in.

Wife and Daughters

Siegel's personal life was as tumultuous as his criminal endeavors. He married Esta Krakower in 1929, and together they had two daughters. However, his infidelities led to their divorce in 1946. Esta moved back to New York with their children, seeking a fresh start away from the chaos of Siegel's life.

Bugsy Siegel in Film

Bugsy Siegel's life has been depicted in various films, with the 1991 movie Bugsy being the most notable. Starring Warren Beatty as Siegel, the film showcased his rise and fall, providing a dramatized glimpse into the life of this infamous gangster. Another film, Mobsters, released the same year, featured Richard Grieco portraying a mobster, further cementing Siegel's legacy in popular culture.

Quick Facts

• Birth date: February 28, 1906
• Birth State: New York
• Birth City: Brooklyn
• Astrological Sign: Pisces
• Death date: June 20, 1947
• Death State: California
• Death City: Beverly Hills

The saga of Bugsy Siegel serves as a captivating chapter in American history, illustrating the complex interplay of ambition, crime, and consequence. His life story continues to intrigue many, embodying the glamorous yet dangerous allure of the underworld.