Early Life and Background
Frank Costello was born Francesco Castiglia on January 26, 1891, in Lauropoli, Calabria, Italy. His family immigrated to the United States and settled in New York City, where he became involved in street gangs and early criminal enterprises.
Rise in Organized Crime
Costello built a reputation as a strategic and politically connected crime leader. He worked closely with Charles “Lucky” Luciano and Meyer Lansky, focusing on gambling, bootlegging, and labor racketeering. He later controlled key gambling operations in New York and became known as “The Prime Minister of the Underworld.”
Later Years and Legacy
In the 1950s, Costello faced legal troubles and testified before the U.S. Senate Kefauver Committee. He continued to influence organized crime until his retirement, and he died on February 18, 1973. His life is documented in sources such as the FBI’s historical records on organized crime.
