The TOP Mafia Bosses of All Time | Sit Down with Michael Franzese

[@nov2263]

What is the most difficult decision you have ever made? Wether It be personal, family, or family.

[@rhysobrien2439]

For me, probably cutting out people in my life that at one time I counted as my brothers. But I changed and they didn't, or couldn't. I needed to move forward for myself and my own growth, and so needed to leave them behind because they would have held me back.

[@blanchewarren4888]

If Michael was around in Jesus' time...he would of been Judas and sold him out then made sermons on the real disciple life. " He asked me to leave everything and follow him, I had to do what's right for my family".

[@ddaccurzio]

Michael have u ever had any dealings with utica ny?

[@ddaccurzio]

My cousins dealt with the colombos up here just interested

[@jimbo33]

@@blanchewarren4888 😂😂🤣🤣😂😂🤣🤣🤣🤣😂😂 I do not agree but funny nonetheless!

[@sudstahgaming]

You've persuaded nearly 1 million people to subscribe to you, you are a leader and a boss of your channel

[@BettyFL]

That’s right. Well put.

[@petarhabek1069]

@@michaelfranzese Michael do you speak Italian?

[@CRAIG5835]

@@petarhabek1069 Of course he does. Milan, Roma, Risotto, Lupara, paisan, et al. Of course he does.

[@jonnytlong]

@@petarhabek1069 I have a different opinion than the other guy that said of course he does. Mike is older than me but there’s still a pretty big chance that he speaks some Italian but isn’t totally fluent in it. Most every other person I know grew up with our older relatives speaking it so usually we all began learning from hearing them speak it.

[@CrimeRelatedTT]

👏

[@philiphaller1018]

This really sums up what most don’t understand about the mob is that it’s literally all about business and making money.

[@h.hickenanaduk8622]

Which they make from selling cannoli. Who doesn't understand that about the mob?

[@kevincooney1523]

Tony Accardo has to be on the list. Boss of Chicago for a long long time and expanded it's power out west. Also never went to prison

[@deeriley9976]

very very true t accardo barely saw the inside of a court room very smart,slippery effective and powerful might be the best ever !!!!!!!

[@yyabdullah8899]

Tony accardo aka big tuna for sure!!!

[@TheBlackJester10]

Oh Joe Batters for sure needs to be on here,he also kept a very low profile,probably helped keep him out of the pen.

[@paulden3158]

Is there a good Tony Accardo video on here?

[@deeriley9976]

@@paulden3158 i gotta see plz send/provide link thank you !!!!!!

[@DonTooP]

The way Michael does not ever incriminate himself is inspiring :)

[@glamourboy06]

Now that is boss material. He would have made a great boss.

[@AnnonHa]

​@@glamourboy06 if only he became a capomandamento/don then he would probably made a "Franzese family"

[@urmom2650]

Thats literally what he did rated on himself and his family

[@kristaskrastina2863]

I think that's why he's around for so long. He's very cautious about what he says.

[@chuck8925]

Inspiring lol? The mob is/was nothing but criminals. Nothing to be proud of. Michael says he's a Christian but acts like he still loves the mafia. God is bigger and better than any 2 bit gangster. And real Christians don't brag about their mob life.The law always wins

[@dannygray-mi3xn]

Spot on Michael. One key to any leaders success is how well they recruit. Recruitment is the key to everything.

[@bradt8019]

As a person who loves history, to me the mob is a fascinating part of early America. With so much secrecy as well, made them more interesting. Great video! 🤔👍

[@ladyofthelake1841]

I agree.

[@JoeKnowsWorst]

agreed!

[@MrPizza063]

@@michaelfranzese totally agree don carlo was the best boss

[@jovoncleveland8479]

@@michaelfranzese Goddess🙏 and God🙏

[@jovoncleveland8479]

Goddess🙏 and God🙏

[@mikeshasims]

I have to say, history about the mob has always been really interesting to me, however, the re-emergence on the scene as a man of Christ and your testimony is what got me to subscribe. It is so amazing being a witness in this day and age when it seems so many people are laying down the sword and giving up in this fight. Press on and many blessings in your continued walk with Christ 🙏🏾

[@rahliE777]

Amen

[@theunholinesswithin3601]

Why are you a man of christ?

[@rahliE777]

@@theunholinesswithin3601 Why not?

[@assdaisjdansceic]

Amen

[@MsCassieCrowe]

Yes same here. All the mob stuff is certainly interesting but what gave me respect for him is his open faith. That's what counts ❤

[@cecile5090]

I could listen to you talk about the mob for hours. I'm so glad I found your channel!❤️

[@ninjaturtletiger]

This guy is such a great person and is so wise! So many people can learn from him! I’m now a happy subscriber!!!

[@Rita-q4z8g]

Is choosing Evil “ wise “ ? ? ? 🌡🧪💊💊💉🩸🩸🪦🪦⚰🚬⚰🗡🔫🔫🔫💣🔫🔫 👺👺🤡🤡🤡☠💀👺👹👹👹🤑🤮🤑🤮🤢💵💸💸

[@michaelmitchell5098]

Excellent job as always. You never forget to give praises where they are due.

[@kgc.tanto8902]

Michael Franzese is amazing!!!! I read or listen to Michael as much as I can. He's a genius.

[@Rita-q4z8g]

He is amazing in ripping off Government TaxMoney that could have been used for Building Hospitals, Road Improvement, and Building Inner City Recreation Centers for Youth at Risk. He is amazing at making money off of true Crime Stories. Is he amazing at making amends for his wrong doings ? ? ? I do not know.

[@mercedewilson2423]

@@Rita-q4z8g He's amazing for learning, and doing stuff with his life even though it wasn't what he originally had planned to do, he did it for his father. Also, because he turned his life around, gave it to God, learned from his mistakes and proceeded to teach US valuable lessons, so Id say he's pretty amazing. Besides most of us know that the Government doesn't put the money where it should go in the first place. So if you don't mind, look at him as a useful human that has made mistakes just as bad as the rest of us. A sin is a sin, and while he did do wrong things, he's a good man, and in front of God we are ALL doomed to burn if we can't humble ourselves and ask for forgiveness. If you got offended reading that, please read it again in a loving tone, because that's how it was meant. (:

[@SuperHorseSense]

I'm glad to hear Don Carlo was the most effective. Obviously everyone in that life did bad things and it's hard to root for them, but Carlo Gambino was still a very respectable man.

[@frankrizzo8799]

Paul Castellano is often overshadowed by John Gotti, but in my opinion Paul was the “better” boss.

[@lordmemnoch518]

Paul Costellano was so much more then Gotti will ever be, in fact I would say he was the opposite of him being low key and being an effective boss.

[@WaterKreature]

@@lordmemnoch518 effectives bosses don't get whacked like that...

[@lordmemnoch518]

@@WaterKreature he didn't get whacked, he was injured by Chin Gigante and then he quit the life...so he neither died in jail nor killed by his former "friends of ours" from his life..testament that he understood the life and knew how to use it to his advantage...unlike most mobsters

[@GhostFaceX4]

@@lordmemnoch518 Paul Costellano did get whacked! Ur confusing him with Frank Costello. They are Two different people.

[@i.marr.6688]

I could listen to your sit downs forever, some really great ones you've put out, keep them coming

[@marcusjnewtonz28]

Either Lucky or Carlo Gambino you could make a case for either, same with Chin

[@css31069]

Trafficante always intrigued me. Seemed like he went through his time as a boss fairly unscathed and had pretty good control over his territory.

[@ChosenOne1991]

Both Santo Sr. & Jr. Were considered great bosses. Both Extremely powerful heavyweights during their reign. Both lived with their full wealth & power intact. Survived vicious gang wars solidified their power. Barely spent anytime in prison. Died at home amongst family in peace.

[@iznbrgwhite421]

Thank you for all of the things you do Mr. Franzese. Keep it up ! Definitely gotta meet you someday soon !

[@tyrone8882]

@@michaelfranzese mike Paul knew Roy was dealing and he turned a blind eye..Roy got killed for something else totally unrelated to dope dealing...and Tony was an international narcotics traffiker...he wasn't killed because of drugs mike they killed him because he was greedy...he didn't share the wealth

[@daniellekuchenmeister2263]

#1 tony accardo #3 carlo Gambino somewhere top 5 Luciano cause of his impact on la cosa nostra

[@derricklarsen2919]

@@daniellekuchenmeister2263 I agree with you on tony accardo. 👍

[@MitsoKara]

"The fundamental question is, will I be as effective as a boss like my dad was? And I will be, even more so. But until I am, it's going to be hard to verify that I think I'll be more effective." - Little Carmine

[@michaelknight8276]

Lmao Sopranos the best sayings of A mob series show 🏌️‍♂️⛳💯

[@watching789]

That dude was funny when he didn't try

[@DIDDLOTIC]

"Very allegorical"

[@anthonysabbs7919]

😂😂😂

[@Dasel22]

Little Carmine was actually a genius..He dodged the crime life and made it out with the money in the end

[@OCSHORTZ]

Great video. However that picture is not Salvatore Maranzano. It is a common mistake. It is actually a photo of a UK based mobster by the name of Salvatore Messina. The only known confirmed photos of Maranzano are his crime scene photos after his murder.

[@swimmingincirclez6930]

OC always dropping some knowledge!

[@glennmartin6688]

Salvatore Messina wasn't UK he was also Italian/ Sicilian. While maranzano was full Sicilian. . Well i know Messina ethnicity was Italian/ Sicilian don't know where he growed up at. Hey i like this sort of stuff so give me some history if I'm wrong .

[@OCSHORTZ]

@@glennmartin6688 he was UK BASED, which is what I wrote in the original comment. They had a criminal organization in Malta as well. The Messina brothers ran vice rackets in London.

[@sidritqafzezi3958]

@@glennmartin6688 he might had been ethnically Italian but it doesn't mean he wasn't resident in UK.

[@NotYourAverageCritic]

I'm glad I waited until the end. I was beginning to think you were going to leave Carlo Gambino out. I kept expecting you to say his name, and finally you did!!

[@tomcatyyz]

Glad I found your channel, my friend. Your stories and points of view are fascinating. May God continue to bless you and yous!

[@takesomemolly1660]

Mr. Franzese just gave us free lessons on Leadership, Business Process & Entrepreneurship. So much nuggets in one video. Thanks sir...

[@jackwalker9492]

The comments about "Boss" and "Leader" reminded me of the Army. Some guys had the rank, and people obeyed due to regulations. Others had people who enthusiastically followed BUT WORKED ALONGSIDE, somebody and it wasn´t always due to rank. Loyalty is a two--way street. A lot of civilian companies have no understanding of the difference between leadership and management or the previous 2 concepts.

[@seansimms8503]

I wasn't in the Army but I was in the Marines...it's like one guy asking for volunteers and no one steps up and they have to assign guys, when the true leader asks for volunteers every man standing steps up.

[@jackwalker9492]

@@seansimms8503 I worked very closelly with the Marines and enjoyed it. Every US branch has a specific mission and is task/organizied and "Culturized" for it! I was Infantry and we had a ton of suppport units and they kicked ass, but a very different culture. One thing I enjoyed about working with Marines was that there was one standard. Basic, but thorough to say the least for all. When an organization gets real big, those values can diminish. Salute Sean Simms. Carry those values for your life.

[@seansimms8503]

@@jackwalker9492 it's good to hear you shout out your support cause that was what we did, 0431, Embarkation/Logistics Specialists...hey, we partied with some Army guys out of Italy in Turkey back in 1992, I can't remember the unit, they were Airborne though, we asked them what they thought of the 82nd...they said overrated and we got them more beer and drank to that!

[@jackwalker9492]

@@seansimms8503 I started in 82ND and was in the Grenada rescue, likely before you were alive. About 10 tours. Glad to hear a "Logistics Specialist" is so kick ass you shit on Inantry Paratroopers. You have a valued mission, but let me tell you, be careful with your insults supply bitch. Peoplle that go face to face and kill enemy, yep, we rely on supply. Insulting such people is not in the best interest of your health.

[@danecannell]

I was a sailor on a cruiser, My first Captain (06), I would have followed into hell my 2nd Captain I would not have followed to McDonalds. Leadership is required.

[@nailsaggitarius4212]

Love your work, Michael. Thank you!

[@kevin8122006]

Love the content Mr. Franzese, thank you for giving us a glimpse behind the curtain!

[@samsciascia4004]

Tony Accardo was a top Boss nationwide. He held power from the late '40s till his death in 1992. Never spent a night in prison. Made a fortune and held power nationwide.

[@Faus4us]

I always enjoy listening to Mr. Franzese.

[@Faus4us]

@@michaelfranzese You're most welcome sir. Thank you and God bless.

[@War_Nerve]

Carlo Gambino sets a pretty high standard for sure. With his low profile, and lack of any long term prison sentence.

[@jimiwilson4322]

I don’t think he spent a day in jail or ever been shot or stabbed. Talk about pitching a perfect game in life! ✌🏻😉

[@Player-de7ii]

He wasn’t low profile. He was the biggest boss in America. He was a great boss though, at least by mob standards.

[@proudamerican3651]

Michael Franzese has the qualities that check the boxes for someone who would have been a stellar boss for one of the five New York Families. He has instinctively known the importance of teachable moments.

[@kincaidwolf5184]

And life in prison? Lmao.

[@chuck8925]

​@kincaidwolf5184 exactly. The law is better and always wins. God honors an honest hardworking life not criminal activity

[@smellypatel5272]

​@@chuck8925God is great but we live in an era where thieves and corporations rule the world

[@draconiansquid1570]

1.02 million you DEFINITELY have that leadership quality you have that solid speaking voice that is respect commanding. Just got into your videos , love the content

[@denizen9998]

Thanks!

[@knight099159]

Stefano Maggadino was a legendary figure as well. Boss of his family for over 50 years. Was respected by the commission and was given a seat despite not being a boss in NY or Chicago.

[@DrChem-wx1uc]

You’re a Master at explaining this History in a contemporary style. Best in the Genre and cool neighbor!

[@blablableh724]

Castello got new friends, ordinary people, whom he kept as good friends after retirement. He was always seeking to better himself and wanted to go beyond the mafia life.

[@CRAIG5835]

Frank was a Cut Above the average moronic intelligence limits of the average Organised Crime soldati, or gangster figures. Thats why he was one of the chosen few who died in his own bed, safely retired to enjoy the wealth he had amassed over his career. A stand up guy, as he showed when he couldn't pick Chin out of the line-up of potential shooters in his attempted whacking. Chin even thanked him after the not guilty verdict was announced, so that no doubt also gained him a PASS from further attempts, he was merely 'Put on the shelf' and had to catch the Next train out of Dodge, as it were. Not a bad trade-off given the history of Vito Genovese's murderous regime.

[@Wootensportscards]

You seem to be about the most honest of all these Mafia people..You say good stuff about yourself but also your faults..Love the channel

[@edwinrosario4919]

I completely agree with Michael, Carlo Gambino was a incredible leader,he' was very humble and no nonsense he was very respected by all, which is very important to be a boss in that life, obviously if something needed to be dealt with violence was the last option unless it was necessary.Its fitting the family is named after him

[@Eric-ew8jt]

Michael have a great day and blessings to you and your family

[@markfisher8559]

Perfect viewing for a Sunday evening thank you for yet another great video michael franzese

[@0bits_1]

I agree 100% on the subject of Boss versus Leader. At my last workplace (I worked in Healthcare), the hierarchy (if you will) was Manager > Deputy /Nurse-in-Charge > CSA/s > Careworkers. The Manager was our Boss, but the majority of us didn't like her and respect went only as far as what was professionally expected of us. Meanwhile, for the Deputy/Nurse-in-Charge, we had the utmost respect and regard for her. She naturally inspired respect, loyalty and dedication, and it was because she displayed those qualities toward us. At meal times, once she'd completed her medication round, she'd sit down with us and we'd have our lunch and/or tea together. She worked with us as though we were all at the same level. The same couldn't be said for the Manager, and it showed massively in the team, in terms of morale.

[@davehernandez7864]

As always mr. Franzese you hit the nail on the head about what a leader. And you certainly are a leader you have a million followers so how dare anybody say anything thank you

[@KikoPeo]

Great list Michael,but what about Santo Traficante and Sam Giancana

[@haroldweiss7674]

Michael, I really enjoy your videos, especially when you discuss what turned your life around. Sometimes, we need to suffer the of pain hitting bottom in order to grow and move forward with our life. On this video, I wonder if Angelo Bruno might be included as an effective mob boss.

[@ABartush]

I don’t think that he hit the bottom. Even being in jail, doesn’t mean it is the bottom. He has and have a strong mentality, core, being a manly man with respect to other people, respect to the women. He is very rare persona. Bottom is like when a person lost respect and behaving awfully, when doing very low minded things. Michael is top, even in jail is top, he spoke how he survived there, he is very smart.

[@barbaralalone6148]

your books are amazing I love them keep them going

[@Britton_Thompson]

John Gotti was the trifecta of a bad mob boss: *•* Killed his old boss to assume the position without Commission approval *•* Trafficked & sold drugs *•* Brought unnecessary attention to the life John Gotti thought 'La Cosa Nostra' meant "this thing of mine"

[@michaelatkinson5681]

If I was a mob boss I would do exactly the opposite, keep a low profile and work behind the scenes.

[@DaOne510]

@@michaelatkinson5681yeah you’ll be the goat huh

[@poplaurentiu4148]

@@NRFP You act like : mafioso were not bad .. these were people that at some point beat someone, kidnap & shoot steal from common business these where street thughs, criminals and they use extorsion & brutal torturing punishment for any information, money etc.. In Europe there was a ferocious boss capo di tutti capi - Toto Salvatore Riina (La Bestia - Te Beast) because he was so brutal he started killing even the law mans that started to went on his tail, police officers, advocates, district-inspectors, and eventually even try to eliminate the judge that was instrumenting the famous Maxi Process in Italy by threaten to blow up the entire place that was looking like a fortress.. there is a series called Giovanni Falcone the man who fought the Mafia or the Paolo Borselino who continued his work but ended in same way dead in a bomb-car also let's not forget the narco-terrorist like Pablo Escobar or latter El Chappo and just not mentioning these among top powerful mob bosses, this clip would be a total nonsense..

[@truupsidetv2616]

he shoulda just sat back and let sammy take all the bullets

[@es279]

He was very powerful. Not many can kill a boss and get away with it, all the bosses either directly or indirectly sold drugs, he had a great crew behind him that backed him to be boss. He wasn't the highest earner, didn't have the biggest crew and he wasn't the most feared. So what does that tell you? He earned it. His only mistake was portraying his persona and charisma out in public. FBI don't care if you're a criminal or not, they only care about their image and if a guy like that can boast and get away with it it sets a bad precedent. Capone would've ended even worse than Gotti if there was surveillance and RICO.

[@Jrcb6600]

Micheals Franzese the boss of this New York mafia content baby!!! Keep hustling micheal

[@Ian-ee8fs]

How could anybody disagree with you. You lived it

[@Sheri7777]

Great video, Michael! So glad you're back. We can't wait for the next sit down to hear all about your UK tour. Be ready for a plethora of questions, tho🤣.🤪Lol! You know how much we value you; if anything, all the questions will show how comfortable your IC crew is with you and how greatly missed you were. I hope you're resting up now. -Sheri Ann

[@frankbasile3662]

Mi Bella Futura Moglie,...

[@judithcampbell1705]

I still like Lucky. He's my favorite and Myer Lansky was a brilliant man with the money and the books. He could have balanced the books for the US treasury. Thank you Sir I appreciate 🙏 your knowledge.

[@Tommy-pe8ct]

I just subscribed and I love how you explain everything in detail💯🇺🇸

[@Tommy-pe8ct]

@@michaelfranzese Your welcome and thank you for replying so fast.Usually bigger channels don't respond at all.

[@gilbeach4769]

I met Carlo Gambino a few times, he used to come into the restaurant I worked in in Massapequa, where he lived part time. Everyone loved him, hugging him and showing him a lot of attention. I was 16 years old, around 1971 and I thought he was just a humble nice old guy. I mentioned this to an older waiter that I thought he was a great guy and he told me, “don’t be fooled kid, this guy has a lot of blood on his hands”. A nice, humble guy in the public though.

[@MarvinAMarcelino]

My dad read pocket books about mafias, I got interested, but i got pieces here and there, i remember there was this book about Al Capone. I am glad i stumbled upon your video and get the real stories first hand from one who has been within the mafia world. Thank you, more power.

[@theskillz]

Tony Accardo - in the role for a long time, kept under the radar..

[@richieporter5124]

Charles "Lucky" Luciano have to be TOP 3 🙌🏾

[@ScootsMcPoot]

You watch too many movies or TV. Lucky was a junkie

[@paulkelly5788]

Great sit down as usual. Looking forward to seeing the next 1

[@DanBuell]

Great episode Michael!

[@Tjcin513]

Man I’m so happy I found this KZbin channel defiantly my favorite KZbinr too watch now keep the great videos coming! Much love from Cincinnati.

[@ddilink]

Enabling the guys to earn is very important. Being generous and not tight fisted buys a lot of loyalty.

[@kurt6410]

I'd like to hear you talk about the westies and Jimmy Coonan, Bill Beattie and Mickey Featherstone. From what I understand that was a vicious crew and even Big Paul was afraid of them

[@johnotoole5786]

@@michaelfranzese michael if ur interested in producing movies im a writer my 1st movie life of crime almost got produced twice kelsey grammar 1st his 2nd wife camille from my hometown cedar grove nj 2nd mike uslan said he can produce for 8 mil also lived in hometown havnt pitchd. For sometime was rags to riches to rags tryn to gt bk to riches. 2nd movie is bad faith its a faustian story 4 acts acordn to 4 season which dictate the tone. It based on guy on spring st which ur boss was godfather to his son he had that color of hair sure u know. Mess if interested just takn a longshot here. Im extremely compendious. Dont know whats in ur wheelhouse. 1st movie gross 100 mil projected according to uslan huge profit margin plus my writing has a motiff of realism.

[@setok.7134]

Tony “Baloney” Bologna and Frankie “Fettuccine” Alfredo deserved honorable mentions

[@ivicazg13]

Well, I am new subscriber. The one that loves history so I want to thank you for sincere and realistic insight into Cosa Nostra history. just facts and your personal expirience and opinion. And in all these videos you didn't forget traditional values. Respect!

[@tmack9031]

I could listen to this all day with a glass of scotch and a cigar for sure...Thanks for sharing Mr.Franzese

[@apkn1955]

You have a wealth of history.

[@chriscripplercruz1833]

Another awesome video to watch thanks Michael and I hope that everything in your life keeps going awesome

[@singsing4900]

Love your channel and the topics you pick out. Keep up the good work!

[@JoseQuintero-wx7wk]

Michael I love the channel I have always wanted to know more about the mob keep up the content I gave you a thumbs up and also subscribed to your channel God bless you too my friend.

[@slash270]

Your the truth Mike. Love your family and style ❤️

[@12227UserName]

Carlo Gambino was and is number 1, in my opinion. I don't see how any other boss could really top that man's status. He was extremely cunning, kept a low profile, stuck with the rules, and overall was highly respected. And the fact that he died of natural causes without spending time in prison only adds to it. I'd go as far as to say he's admirable, despite the questionable nature of that lifestyle.

[@soulbrother7144]

Tony Accardo. Boss of the outfit from the 40’s until his death in 92. Never spent a night in jail. Great book about him by an FBI man who was on his task force. Chicago is really interesting. Pound for pound more powerful than New York.

[@soulbrother7144]

Not to say Carlo wasn’t badass.

[@SteveSmith-fp9gn]

Actually Gambino did spend some time in prison back in the early 30's

[@luciano-km7mq]

Stefano Magaddino was the Buffalo crime family boss for 50 years. The longest tenured boss in Cosa nostra history. Carlo Gambino was loved and respected even by law enforcement (I don't recall he served a single second behind bars). Gaetano Luchesse was a good boss who was also highly respected. He went to the can only once for less than 3 years. Of course Salvatore Lucania was arguably the most brilliant. He abolished the title of 'boss of bosses' but could've taken that position if he wanted. If there were to be a Mt Rushmore of mob bosses, Luciano and Gambino would be the first 2 to be engraved in the mountain.

[@josephsierzengaIV]

There a a few… those guys are obvious. Accardo Magadino Zerilli then Tocco all had 40+yr runs without any major damage or jail time. If you die filthy rich and in your own bed… you got it done.

[@OCSHORTZ]

Gambino was sentenced to 22 months for avoidance of alcohol taxes. He served 8 of these. He also served 30 days on a separate occasion.

[@josephsierzengaIV]

@@OCSHORTZ 💯 And he was Boss for just under 20yrs. Others lasted twice as long.

[@Player-de7ii]

Magaddino wasn’t a good boss at the end of his career though. His family kicked him out after he said he didn’t have money yet a little bit later he got caught with $400k

[@luciano-km7mq]

@@Player-de7ii Never gave him a compliment. Just pointed out he was the longest reigning boss

[@ArcGlowingVision]

If Meyer was a boss (which he kind of was in a way) I think he would have been a good one. Curious to hear your thoughts on Santo Trafficante, Vito Rizzuto & The Beast Salvatore Riina. I had no idea Carmine lead the Colombo family for so long. I am 100% with you on Paul and Carlos (they are my favorites too). You would make a great Family leader no doubt Michael, not good, but great. I say this because you have the ability to rationalize situations out to positive conclusion. Your not hot headed. You prefer earning to violence and you are both book and street wise, plus it's not a fault you have incredible presence and conduct yourself professionally.

[@sidritqafzezi3958]

To be a boss you need also the main thing which is "guts".

[@tomkitch7121]

Thank you, Michael, for another highly informative and analytical video on the subject of the American / Italian Mafia.

[@georgetaylor8591]

Hi Michael, this was a great sit down!! Thanks for sharing your thoughts!! Take Care and Stay safe is this crazy world!!!!

[@SBatts-rd9kg]

It would've been interesting to see if Neil Dellacroce had made that list? It would be interesting to see the most effective underbosses of all time.

[@gwenmarie7311]

I Think For Me I believe Micheal’s Dad would Get that . I mean his dad lived to be 102 🤷🏽‍♀️. I mean yes he was in prison but 🙌🏽🙏🏽. The lord Kept him alive a long time.

[@SBatts-rd9kg]

@@gwenmarie7311 That's a good point too!

[@danlardino6607]

Tony Accardo…. From Capone bodyguard to head of the Chicago Outfit. He was the true power in Chicago even when he put Giancana in as front boss. Nothing was done without checking with him .

[@phildicks4721]

Also Paul Ricca. He and Tony would run the family, but put others in the public position of boss to take the heat from Law Enforcement.

[@jacknapier9026]

Accardo deserves to be next to Gambino…but that shows you how the Outfit is disregarded!🤷🏻‍♂️

[@erikarteaga6021]

New York east coast bias.

[@wolfelite0320]

Thank you for leaving this record of your experiences and knowledge for the rest of us to learn from.

[@JAV619]

Excellent dialogue, Mr Franzese. Always enjoy your content.

[@channel1800dumb]

I've called you Don Franzese for years, sir. Enough for me. God bless 🙏

[@lewis6138]

This is brilliant! There is a boss where I work & he thinks that because he can speak down to people due to his 'authority' nobody dare question him, but he's recently been demoted due to this & still hasn't learned.

[@paulden3158]

U should be the boss at your work

[@lewis6138]

@@paulden3158 I should to be truthful, I could not agree with you more

[@danlauck313]

Michael- he was before your time but from everything I’ve read, Tommy Lucchese seemed to be cut from the same mold as Gambino and to some extent Costello. Tons of political influence, kept a low profile, made smart decisions on who he aligned with, stayed out of the can, and made a lot of money in the garment district for sure. Did your dad know him? Ever talk about him? I watch most of your videos and he’s a guy that I’ve not heard you speak about in depth. Curious to hear your take on Tommy Lucchese.

[@franky6772]

I just want to apologize for watching so many of your vids and not subscribed but I'm subscribed now lol. And your the BOSS of this family, sending love from home here in New York

[@christopherthompson1011]

God bless you and keep you papa Micheal 💪🏾💪🏾

[@bradt8019]

I think "The Chin" was my favorite boss! He played to win. 👋😏

[@Eduardo-xi1cq]

Many thanks for all your work, Michael. It is great to have first-hand information. I maybe include Giuseppe Morello since he was capable, as far as I know, of leading the organization to a next level and having a real influence and power across the country (according to Mike Dash who in his book, "The first family", draws upon Nicola Gentile testimonies). Following this line, it would be greate you to make some video about Giussepe Morello and his epoch, if you consider it interesting enough. Many thanks again!

[@JSmusiqalthinka]

A lot of this reminds me of the overall dynamics of many hierarchical power structures, but especially feudalism. The bosses are like nobles/Lords, and they all play the same power games. The guys on top have to make sure they don't get too cocky or greedy. Not because that's bad...but because it will cause all the other nobles to team up against you or otherwise threaten the balance of power. This, I think is demonstrated through a fascinating difference between the Mafia and the Nobles of old. Namely, Maranzano tried to institute a semi feudal power structure, with himself as the King, i.e., the most powerful boss among bosses. Of course, the King is powerful, but not more powerful than all the other Lords put together. One of them, Luciano, decided to take action against that would-be King of bosses. However, rather than taking power for himself he spread it among the most powerful few. Lucky Luciano essentially turned La Cosa Nostra from a monarchy into an oligarchy, by founding the Commission. Like a board of directors or council of Lords. It's like he realized that an explicitly authoritarian leader/King would be an inherently unstable system for a crime syndicate, constantly under threat from both each other AND the "legitimate" power structure of the State. By creating that Commission, he stabilized the hierarchy, and therefore, their material interests. As a critic and opponent of hierarchical power structures, this is all quite fascinating and valuable to know about.

[@JohnGruber-di3cw]

That's all about the New York family bosses but many of the Chicago Outfit's bosses were also very famous like Johnny Torrio,Al Capone,Frank Nitti,Paul Ricca,Anthony Accardo,Sam Giancana,Joey Aiuppa, & Jackie Cerone.

[@karlhaber1904]

Thank you for profiling Mr Gambino and his method of leadership. I appreciate the insight.

[@the_monstah6378]

It always baffles me how this man can speak so openly and so freely and is somehow still alive. How someone hasn’t come after him by now is crazy.

[@ms.megalodon3704]

It’s crazy but also not that crazy. The mob isn’t what it once was. It’s nearly been wiped out and they have so much to focus on that Michael just isn’t worth it. The bad publicity alone outweighs silencing him. Also a lot of the people he talks about are dead, and the crimes are ancient history by this point. He also makes a point of avoiding saying anything incriminating that could land somebody in prison. That’s more or less why he’s safe.

[@willlasdf123]

Hes like literally one of the only guys from that era whose still alive and out of prison

[@PrometheanRising]

​@willlasdf123 The alive part is most important. It's not business, it's personal. Once the guys that it is personal for are gone the likelihood that anything is going to happen goes way down. Guys who weren't directly affected are only going to care if there is a payoff for caring. And once the guys who took it personally are gone all that is left is guys with no motive to care about it.

[@rtcrump0079]

Carlo Gambino is always the number one Mafia boss in my view. Ain't nobody gonna change my mind about that.

[@paulgraham4004]

I agree with you on that one mate

[@pr-tj5by]

100%

[@stevjohnsonpo]

The crazy don

[@billbixby557]

Just a question for such a strong statement, again just a question: 1) you just picked a favorite and stuck with that person? 2) you like his style his story and that's your guy? 3) you've done some research and your choice is the best option for Top Boss?

[@rtcrump0079]

@@billbixby557 That's three questions, not one. Make up your mind.

[@donh1572]

There is a interesting video on KZbin showing the actual Frank Costello slot machines being thrown into the water, as mentioned by Mike in this video

[@inigini]

I’m very new to your channel Mr Franceze and my reason of following you is this clear cut masculine energy you project. I feel good seen you or hearing your voice while I’m working. So thank you for creating this content!

[@markkuman4673]

Epic just Epic. Hello from Papua New Guinea 🇵🇬

[@mostlypeacefulmisterputin]

Michael, I don’t think I’ve ever heard you talk about the Detroit families, the Zerillis, Toccos, Giacalones, guys like Angelo “The Chairman” Meli, “Papa John” Priziola, etc. What are your opinions on how they were actually able to remain so successful, under the control of the same 2 families for basically the last almost 100 years, and have (I believe) only 1 made guy flip in that time period, also the way they have remained almost entirely interrelated through marriage for so long? I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts, given I’ve grown up my whole life with family members having a lot of direct, and indirect connections to some of these guys. Love the content!

[@jimbo33]

just watched a great video of Chuckie O'brien's stepson Jack Goldsmith interviewed by Bill Kristol about Hoffa, the Teamsters and the Detroit mob. Very informative. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bKeymZuGZbmlo5o

[@marjase9172]

But if I'm sincerely honest in my humble opinion, without being sentimental, and of course without offending anyone who thinks differently from my direction but rather looking into this serious matter with a perspective distinction and without condemning anyone's point of view, honestly think and feel that I have nothing to say

[@darkstar92772]

I’m stealing that. Thank you.

[@dozhadeville444]

Since 10 years old I was infatuated with the mafias amd their tactics and all the unique characters. The first thing I ever searched on a computer was mob history! Watched all the movies 100 times. I literally tried to start a family at 14 😂 I had a potrait of Lucky, Al & John all painted together on my wall. I liked Big Paul, only because we had the same birthday.

[@estebanmunoz7486]

Jajajajaj… that story is amazing… the Capo di tutti Capi of your high school…😂….

[@dozhadeville444]

@@estebanmunoz7486 🤣🤣🤣

[@NRFP]

Promote bad job like criminal 😂

[@donnavannostrand2378]

I grew up 3 blocks from Joe Bonano's home in Tucson, AZ.

[@dawnwatson2209]

Thankyou for the negotiation much appreciated.

[@jmy7622]

I also feel Calo Gambino WAS A GREAT BOSS, SEEMS LIKE THE MORE YOU STAY OUT OD JAIL THE MORE EFFETIVE YOU ARE. One you did not mention was Tony Accardo, now he was supposed to be retired but was he?In any case he seemed to be in charge especially if it was an if an important matter.He was hard to figure out.

[@bbmw9029]

Agree with Gambino as number 1. But you mention Chicago. If there's anyone who could challenge Gambino for number 1, it would be Tony Accardo out of Chicago. He tried to retire, but they couldn't make it work without him, and he came back. Also, Tommy Lucchese has to be in this list.

[@NorthWalesKid]

The most effective Mafia Bosses are ones you’ve never heard of, are never seen

[@sekoutouregreen8512]

Enjoyed man. Carlo Gambino huh!! Costello and Lucky. Awesome!

[@rodcliffneal2014]

That's true, Michael. A leader does motivate others who willfully follow them.