Meyer Lansky: The Financial Genius Behind Organized Crime

Meyer Lansky, a name synonymous with organized crime in America, was a man of many talents. Born in 1902 in Grodno, Russia, and later immigrating to the United States, he became a pivotal figure in the development of the national crime syndicate. His story is not just one of crime; it is also a tale of survival, ambition, and cunning financial strategies that allowed him to thrive in a dangerous world.

Who Was Meyer Lansky?

Meyer Lansky was born in 1902 in Grodno, Russia (now part of Belarus) and immigrated to America as a child. He grew up in a tough environment, which shaped his future as an organized crime figure. Lansky played a crucial role in establishing a national crime syndicate in the U.S., becoming one of the most powerful men in the country. He managed extensive gambling operations both in the U.S. and in Cuba. In 1970, seeking to evade federal charges, Lansky attempted to retire in Israel but was eventually forced to return to the U.S., where many charges were ultimately dropped due to his declining health. He passed away in 1983 in Miami Beach, Florida.

Background and Early Years

Maier Suchowljansky, later known as Meyer Lansky, was born in Grodno, a city that was part of Poland at the time. His family immigrated to the United States in 1911. Due to confusion over his birth date, he was assigned July 4th as his birthday for immigration records. As Lansky grew older, he demonstrated exceptional mathematical skills, which would later aid him in his criminal enterprises. After finishing eighth grade, he left school to work as a tool and die maker and later as an auto mechanic.

Forming Key Partnerships: Bugsy Siegel and Lucky Luciano

In his early criminal career, Lansky started a street gambling business and became a protégé of notorious mobster Arnold Rothstein. He formed a close partnership with Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel, leading to the creation of the Bugs and Meyer Mob, known for their violent enforcement tactics. During Prohibition, Lansky also ventured into liquor bootlegging and developed a strong friendship with Charles “Lucky” Luciano. Their partnership was foundational in creating a more organized crime structure in America.

The Establishment of a National Crime Syndicate

Alongside Luciano and other key figures, Lansky was instrumental in organizing a national crime syndicate, connecting various mob factions across the U.S. and integrating legitimate businesses into their operations. He was known as the financial mastermind of the syndicate, with estimates of his earnings reaching hundreds of millions of dollars, although this figure remains debated. Lansky played a vital role during World War II, collaborating with the Office of Strategic Services to thwart sabotage at New York docks.

Expanding Operations into Cuba

Lansky's wealth from bootlegging allowed him to delve into various illegal activities while keeping gambling as a central focus. He established casinos in Cuba during Fulgencio Batista's dictatorship, enjoying significant success until Fidel Castro's rise to power in 1959 forced him to divest his interests there. This period marked the height of Lansky's influence in the gambling world.

Family Life and Relationships

Lansky married Anna Citron in 1929, and they had three children together. Their youngest child, Sandra, later wrote a memoir detailing her experiences growing up in a mob family. Despite their marriage, Lansky's relationship with Anna was strained, leading to their divorce in 1947. He remarried in 1948 to Thelma Schwarz and remained with her until his death. His grandson, Meyer Lansky II, has since pursued a career in the casino industry.

Later Years and Final Days

In 1970, concerned about potential legal repercussions, Lansky attempted to retire to Israel, seeking citizenship through the Law of Return. However, his criminal history led to his deportation back to the U.S. After returning in 1972, he was arrested in Miami, but many charges were dismissed due to his health issues. Meyer Lansky passed away from lung cancer on January 15, 1983, at the age of 80.

Legacy in Literature and Film

The life of Meyer Lansky has captivated the media, resulting in numerous biographies and portrayals in film and television. Notable works include Little Man: Meyer Lansky and the Gangster Life by Robert Lacey and Havana Nocturne by T. J. English. His character has been brought to life by several actors, including Ben Kingsley in Bugsy and Richard Dreyfuss in Lansky.

Quick Facts

• Birth Year: 1902
• Birth Date: July 4, 1902
• Birth City: Grodno
• Birth Country: Russia
• Death Year: 1983
• Death Date: January 15, 1983
• Death City: Miami Beach, Florida

Understanding Meyer Lansky's life offers a glimpse into the complex world of organized crime and the intricate balance between legitimacy and illegality.