Well researched, detailed and entertaining chronicle of Al Capone's rise to be the king of the Chicago underworld. Starting with his days partnered with Johnny Torio (part of HBO's BOARDWALK EMPIRE's storyline)it covers everything from the problems created by prohibition - well for the government as it created a criminal element that gripped the streets of Chicago - to the tax-evasion case against Capone spearheaded by Georg E.Q. Johnson that eventually brought him down, to his final days in prison - Alcatraz - to his deterioration and eventual death from a syphilis related cause.The book also contains a fascinating look at the St. Valentine's Day Massacre which sent the government case against Capone into overdrive as President Hoover became obsessed with bringing him in as the leader of Prohibition crime. Capone probably had nothing to do with the Massacre at all which is detailed in the book, and one of the best parts. It also completely debunks any involvement that Elliot Ness and his "Untouchables" may have had in bringing in Capone - meaning virtually none - in a MAN WHO SHOT LIBERTY VALANCE-like reversal of "print the legend."It's a fascinating read from a seemingly glamorous time in American history (that has inspired some of the best movies - just ask Warner Bros.) when mugs with heaters ruled the streets of Chicago.I was also really amazing at how few innocent bystanders were hurt or killed during all these hits and gangster activities. The gangsters seemed set on taking out only those necessary. Today random crazies with guns who feel the need to shoot up schools or movie theaters are much more dangerous to the general public than these guys ever were. This was a very interesting look at Al Capone. We learn of an island that built a house as tribute out of whiskey crates. We learn that his downfall due to tax evasion almost never came about because he never was directly connected to the bootlegging and gambling businesses which furnished his lifestyle. The author has found information in the FBI files that show a possible resolution to the St Valentine's Day Massacre. Capone was apparently not involved.
Excellent. A completely different perspective of the man - it almost makes you feel sorry for him.
—Mazhar
Syphilis will make you go nuts, folks.
—shabz
Entertaining and readable.
—Isis
great --
—mel
