Bill Posted May 3, 2023 Share Posted May 3, 2023 The State of Tahoma Written by Midari, Theyss, Bill & Tyrr. Current Year: 1900 Tahoma Tahoma, a small francophone and French-influenced state, was purchased by the United States from France in 1803. The process of America buying Tahoma from France may have played a small part in the War of 1812, as France used this money to fund their war effort against Great Britain. Up until that time, the United States, a peaceful yet large trading nation, had maintained neutrality in the war. Tensions originated from long-standing differences over territorial expansion in North America and British support for Native American tribes who opposed U.S. colonial settlement in the Northwest Territory. These tensions escalated in 1807 when the Royal Navy began enforcing stricter restrictions on American trade with France and impressing men they claimed as British subjects, even those with American citizenship certificates. The United States aimed to establish its own empire, and all of Great Britain's imperialized territories were highly enticing for the relatively new nation that sought to expand into Indian, British, and Spanish territories. The War of 1812 lasted from 1812 to 1815, and although the United States emerged largely unscathed with the Treaty of Ghent, Napoleonic France struggled in the aftermath. Great Britain successfully protected all of its territories and sent France home empty-handed. While the United States fell short of capturing territories in Canada as they had envisioned, their westward expansion within their self-imposed boundaries had significant consequences. This rapid expansion not only brought about the displacement and marginalization of native peoples but also contributed to the eruption of the American Civil War. The causes of the Civil War were multifaceted, ranging from the expansion of the United States to the complexities surrounding newly added pro and anti-slavery states, as well as differing interpretations of states' rights. However, at the heart of the conflict lay the economics of slavery and the political control of that institution. After years of grueling conflict, which stands as the bloodiest ever witnessed on American soil, the war concluded with the Union emerging victorious over the secessionist South. It was during this post-war period that Tahoma embarked on a determined southwesterly push toward the New Austin territory. Meanwhile, interests from the northern states on the eastern seaboard descended upon Saint Denis, aiming to capitalize on its burgeoning economy. These northern influences sought to improve the city's infrastructure and exploit its rich raw materials and workforce. The aftermath of the Civil War brought about a profound transformation in the United States, as the Union sought to rebuild and redefine itself. The abolition of slavery was a pivotal outcome of the war, with the ratification of the 13th Amendment in 1865 marking a significant milestone in the nation's history. However, the scars of the war ran deep, and the process of healing and reconciliation would take years to unfold. The impacts of the Civil War extended far beyond its immediate conclusion, shaping the trajectory of Tahoma and the entire nation for generations to come. During the westward expansion and settlement of Tahoma, Native American tribes played a crucial role in the region's history. The vast lands of Tahoma were home to several indigenous nations, including the Wapiti, Apache, Comanche, Navajo and many others. These tribes had lived on the land for generations, deeply connected to the natural surroundings and rich cultural heritage. As American settlers moved into the territory, conflicts arose between the newcomers and the Native American tribes. The United States government pursued a policy of westward expansion, often disregarding the rights and territories of the indigenous peoples. Treaties were signed with some tribes, attempting to allocate specific lands for Native American use. However, these agreements were frequently violated, leading to further tensions and displacement. The Native American tribes resisted the encroachment on their lands, defending their way of life and ancestral territories. The battles and skirmishes between the tribes and the U.S. Army became more frequent as the settlers pressed further into indigenous territories. Prominent Native American leaders such as Sitting Bull, Crazy Horse, and Red Cloud emerged as fierce defenders of their people's sovereignty. Over time, as the United States government exerted more control over the region, Native American tribes faced further challenges. The U.S. government implemented policies aimed at assimilating Native Americans into mainstream American society, such as the forced enrollment of children in boarding schools, the Dawes Act of 1887, and the establishment of reservations. These policies had a profound impact on Native American communities, often leading to cultural loss and hardships. The State of Tahoma, its cities and counties therein. By T. H. Ritter The State of Tahoma is a most unique and exquisite one, even when compared to the vast bounty that is the greater continental United States of America. Tahoma is divided into several principal counties, those being as follows: Lemoyne, New Hanover, Ambarino, West Elizabeth, and New Austin. The capital of the state is most well-known and famous city of Saint-Denis. Each county and city within the state has a deep history going back to the founding of this most magnanimous country and beyond. A history upon which will be further explored within the body of this text. The County of Lemoyne Lemoyne County is the most venerable county in the state and the first point of European Christian settlement in the region. It is divided into three regions: the urban landscape of Saint Denis, the pastoral fields and plantations of Rhodes in Scarlett Meadows, and the murky Bayou. Lemoyne is named for one Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne, Sieur de Bienville, a French soldier and colonial administrator who was instrumental in the establishment of a French presence in the region of Tahoma and Louisiana. His presence and guidance of French colonial activities from 1701–1743 were instrumental in ensuring that they succeeded despite all the odds set against them. It was during this tenure of Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne, Sieur de Bienville as colonial administrator of the region, that the city of Saint Denis was founded. Starting its life as a small, garrisoned fort along the Lannahechee River, it was established to guard French colonial possessions from attack from the burgeoning colonial domains of Spain and Great Britain it quickly grew into much more, flourishing from the trade up and the Lannahechee River. The name of the city is taken from Saint Denis of Paris, a 3rd Century Christian martyr. The legend states that upon exploring the land that is now Lemoyne, a cadre of French scouts beyond lost in the bayou. Beset on all sides by natives and dangerous wildlife, they afeared for their lives. However, at the peak of their desperation, the visage of Saint Denis appeared to them holding his decapitated head in his hands. Following this saintly apparition, the scouts were led out of the bayou and to the shore of the Lannahechee and to the site where the city of Saint Denis now stands. In this day and age, the city of Saint Denis is the jewel of all Tahoma and not to be missed by any travelling the state. As we stare into the coming 20th Century, Saint Denis is a city ready to meet this brave new world, boasting all the amenities of a modern city as well as culture and history that cannot be boasted by any other city in whole of the United States. The town of Rhodes, in the Scarlett Meadows region of the county, was founded by one Brigadier General Sherman M. Rhodes not long after the acquisition of what is now Tahoma by the United States. With the change in ownership for the region, so too came the need for an increased American military presence, no more seen than during and following the War of 1812. It was during this conflict and the subsequent Creek and Seminole Wars that General Rhodes and his men were stationed in Tahoma and outside of Saint Denis. As has been the case throughout history, where soldiers go, those seeking to make money off them follow. One would hardly believe that the prim and proper town of Rhodes began its life as a town of baggage train followers; however, from my most dutiful research, I do believe such to be the case. Even if residents of the town would much rather profess the story that it was truly established when General Rhodes retired to the town after leaving the Army, however, it had existed in some form since the General was first garrisoned in the area. The Scarlett Meadows, and by extension Rhodes, of today are primarily still influenced by great plantations and the families that run them, as such has been the case since the region was first settled. For one seeking a demure and sophisticated people with deep southern hospitality yet are not fond of the hustle and bustle of Saint Denis, one must visit Rhodes. What is there to be said about the Bayou Nwa? It is a land fed by the Kamassa River, one of the many tributaries of the Lannahechee. It is a humid and intolerable place, one best avoided by any decent folk who travel the county. Its name, Nwa, comes from a Creole mispronunciation of the French noir, a descriptor both of its large negro population and the dark interior of the swamp where it can feel as if the light does not reach there. It is a region with but one town, if it can even be called that, named Lagras. It is a settlement consisting mainly of negros and local creoles, who spend their days trawling the swamp for crayfish. New Hanover New Hanover is the largest county by size in all of Tahoma, sprawling from the shore of the Lannahechee in the East, the Grizzlies to the North, the Dakota River to the West, and Flat Iron Lake to the South. The county is further divided into a number of distinct regions, those being the Heartlands, Cumberland Forest, and Roanoke Ridge. The founding of New Hanover has an interesting history. Though nominally part of French colonial possessions prior to purchase by the United States, it was mostly uninhabited by Europeans and Christians, rather, the vast plains and forests were the purview of native tribes. That is until after the Revolutionary War, if legend is to be trusted. During the war, the British made great use of German soldiers, commonly known as Hessians since many of them came from the German states of Hesse-Kassel and Hesse-Hanau. However, a number of them likewise came from the Electorate of Hanover which was in personal union with Great Britain at the time. Following the end of the Revolutionary War, legend tells that a large group of these Hanoverian soldiers had either fallen in love with North America, or rather merely had little prospects to return to back home in Hanover. Thus, with the cessation of hostilities a number deserted and opted to remain on the American continent. Yet as they were unwelcome in the new United States due to their role as soldiers under the employ of the British, they moved southwest and settled in lands north of Saint Denis, in what is now New Hanover. Thus, the region found its name. However, as with much of history there is always a differing view. That being that the region does take its name from Hanoverian immigrants, however more recently than the Hessian deserters of legend. The truth of this matter is even further obfuscated when we discuss the oldest permanent settlement in New Hanover, Annesburg. The largest settlement in Roanoke Ridge, the densely hilly and forested eastern portion of the county, it has existed in record for nearly a century, far before the mass influx of German immigrants to the United States. This information leads some credence to the fact that Annesburg and the New Hanover region was home to German immigrants far earlier than the rest of the United States. This German influence on the town can be further seen by the presence of the Mitternachtsbierhalle, or Midnight Beer Hall, as well as several buildings in German style and fashion. As with the influx of more German immigrants to the United States, many flocked to Annesburg and New Hanover, seeking a familiar culture and people in the New World. Yet Annesburg is not merely a town of Beer Halls and Lederhosen, it is most prominently known by the vast coal mine that is the lifeblood of the town. The Jamerson Mining Company, owned by one Archibald Jameson, is the primary employer in Annesburg and firmly has the town within its grip, ensuring that the town is most certainly a company town. The coal mined at Annesburg is primarily shipped either by rail to Saint Denis and other towns in the state or shipped further afield up and down the Lannahechee. For visitors to Tahoma, a visit to Annesburg is not required, as there is little to do for a curious tourist, however if one happens to stop there, it is worth taking in the few unique buildings that remain and musing upon its interesting history. There is another settlement in Roanoke Ridge, yet it is one I would advise all but the boldest of travellers to avoid, Van Horn. Once a prosperous trading port along the Lannahechee, Van Horn is a town on the down and out. Riddled with disrepair and plagued with crime. Like Annesburg, Van Horn is an older settlement, it was founded in the early half of the century by a Dutch immigrant called Johannes Pieter Van Hoorn. J. P. Van Hoorn was a well-regarded and successful merchant and trader with investments up and down the Lannahechee and beyond. Yet his primary business was that of import and export, importing wares from Holland and the rest of Europe whilst exporting valuable commodities such as furs and timbers. J. P. Van Hoorn first established the town we now know as Van Horn to be the centre of this enterprise, and most importantly as a way to escape the numerous tariffs and taxes imposed by the Port Authority of Saint Denis. Very quickly a bustling settlement sprouted up outside J. P. Van Hoorn’s trading port, with most of the town’s population employed by his company or working in tertiary businesses catering to the needs of the workers and the too-and-fro of sailors and traders. Thus, the town was inherently tied to the fortunes of J. P. Van Hoorn and his company, for better or for worse. When J. P. Van Hoorn died at a venerable age, the company passed to his nephew Willem Niels Van Hoorn. Unlike his uncle, W. N. Van Hoorn had little in the way of business acumen or desire to see the company prosper and grow, rather it was a source of funds to furnish his decadent lifestyle in Saint Denis. Within a few years of his tenure at the helm of the company, he had run it aground. Spending vast sums of money gambling, on women of the night, and every other over-indulgence afforded to him. Attempting to pay off his debtors, W. N. Van Hoorn sold off most of the business and its assets, liquidating the company so top fund a few more years of his debauched lifestyle. It was with this action, that the town of Van Horn was doomed, with most of the town’s residents losing their jobs or having their own businesses impacted by such vast job-losses. Quickly, the town was plunged into poverty and as we all know, crime is a bedfellow to poverty. Gangs quickly moved into the town, and it became a haven for scum and villainy of all stripes. It is in this state that Van Horn remain, run down and dilapidated, a shadow of its former self. If one passes through Van Horn on train or carriage, do not leave your mode of transport unless most necessary least one wish to keep their possessions in check and their person unmolested. Moving outside the hilly landscape of Roanoke Ridge, we travel now to the largest expanse of land in New Hanover County, the Heartlands. The Heartlands is a land turned mostly over to agricultural pursuits with the region firmly in the grasp of large Ranches and their owners such as with Emerald Ranch. However, this is now being challenged with the introduction of new enterprises such as Cornwall Kerosine & Tar which has established a refinery and extraction plant in the centre of the region. Yet at present, it is still agriculture and ranching that hold most sway and such influence can clearly be seen in Valentine, the largest town in the Heartlands. Arriving in Valentine, one can clearly tell it is a rural agricultural town. Arriving by train you are greeted by its cattle auction and pens, livestock ready to be shipped off all over the state and beyond. If you enjoy a steak in Saint Denis, it is almost certain that the cow it came from was shipped out of Valentine. That is not to say Valentine is merely solely about cattle, though the town is new when compared to the old settlements of Roanoke Ridge and Lemoyne and was first founded around the railway station and livestock pens, it is beginning to grow and diversify with a number of businesses and amenities including a hotel and decent saloon. Valentine like most of New Hanover has a strong population of German descent though recently bolstered by an influx of Scandinavian immigrants. Yet with its premier rail links, it is becoming more and more cosmopolitan by the year as it continues to expand and grow. If one is travelling across Tahoma, a stay in Valentine is warranted, if not for pure curiosity, then to enjoy some of the impressive vistas the Heartlands has. The final region of New Hanover is Cumberland Forest, this region poses impressive landscape and good hunting however there is little in the way of towns or villages. Rather the main inhabitants of Cumberland Forest are soldiers of the U.S. Army, stationed in Fort Wallace. The fort was initially established during the Indian Wars to fight of roaming bands of natives however these days it does little in the way of actual fighting, moreso there to safeguard the state should Indians ever cause trouble again, or Mexico is foolish enough to cross the San Luis River. Ambarino Ambarino is a region dominated by the impressive and imposing Grizzles. The region is divided into the West and East Grizzles with the terrain between the two differing as one progresses further up the mountains with the West Grizzlies being a land of snow-capped peaks whilst the East Grizzlies is rough terrain and ravines. Most of the county is uninhabited, save for a few points. Those being the town of Colter in the West Grizzles, and the Wapiti Indian Reservation in the East. Neither of these places warrant a visit, and one would have to go out of their way to visit them. Colter was once a semi-prosperous mining time, extracting ore from the Grizzlies, however following a storm in 1884 the town was mostly abandoned, now it is only the purview of hunters and mountain men, using the town to survive the winter if they are caught up in the mountains. There has been recent talk as of late however, of Jameson Mining Company re-establishing the town and purchasing the mineral rights from John Colter, yet not agreement has been reached at the time of writing this pamphlet. It remains mostly a ghost town, and not one worth braving the perils to visit. The Wapiti Indian Reservation is the new home of the Indians that once terrorised much of Tahoma. Now safely securing on land granted to them by the U.S. Government, they have been mostly civilized and Christianised by the hard work of the Government and missionaries. It is still advised that those without proper reason give the territory a wide berth, as some of the more brazen and younger Indians are known to be somewhat hostile. Progressive Era In late Victorian America, during the Progressive Era, inequality and injustice were pervasive, and workers from various fields were subjected to horrendous living and working conditions. High taxation burdened the working class, while corrupt government officials and wealthy businessmen reaped the profits, often at the expense and even the lives of workers. Faced with these deplorable circumstances, the workforce mobilized to confront such injustices, leading to notable strikes such as the Great Southwest Railroad Strike of 1886 and the Pullman Strike of 1894. The latter strike resulted in the formation of the American Railway Union (ARU) and became a significant milestone in the history of socialism and workers' rights in the United States. During the Progressive Era, a group of investigative journalists, aptly named "muckrakers" due to their willingness to dig deep into the muck of corruption, exposed the shady business practices, governmental corruption, and appalling working conditions faced by ordinary individuals. Their exposés shed light on major social problems such as racism. Among these pioneering figures was Ida B. Wells, who fearlessly informed the public and graphically documented the horrors of lynching in the South. The muckrakers' scathing accounts exerted pressure on affluent factory and railway owners, forcing legislative changes aimed at protecting the working class. While progress was made in enacting child labor laws, regulations safeguarding the adult working class came much later. Unions stepped in to fill the void left by the government, advocating for workers' rights and providing protection where legislation fell short. However, workers who were prohibited from joining unions for fear of losing their jobs relied on the government to provide arbitration. Despite these efforts, it wasn't until the Great Depression that the working class would receive more substantial support. The Progressive Era represented a time of increased awareness and activism, with individuals and organizations working to expose and combat the social and economic injustices that plagued Victorian America. It set the stage for ongoing efforts to address systemic issues and promote social and economic reforms in the years that followed. Civil and Women’s Rights The Civil Rights Act of 1875 marked a significant milestone in the United States, bringing about crucial societal and legal reforms. This groundbreaking law declared that all individuals within the country's jurisdiction should have equal access to accommodations, facilities, and privileges, regardless of their race or previous condition of servitude. It aimed to combat mistreatment and discrimination, particularly against black American citizens who were still facing significant challenges despite their emancipation. While the act ensured equal rights to public accommodations, it did not guarantee that people of color would be treated with respect or humanity, especially in the rural South where systems like sharecropping perpetuated a form of virtual enslavement or indebtedness for black Americans. However, the Civil Rights Act of 1875 laid the foundation for future progress in securing equal rights and fighting against discrimination. In the realm of women's rights, the Women's Suffrage Movement had been gaining traction since before the American Civil War, but it gained widespread attention after the Seneca Falls Convention of 1848. This movement fought for the right of women to vote and for broader gender equality. The suffragettes challenged societal norms that restricted women's roles and opportunities, aiming to secure equal rights and opportunities within the workplace and society as a whole. While the primary focus of the suffragette movement was voting rights, many activists also fought against oppressive social norms that hindered women from pursuing their passions and ambitions outside of the traditional expectations of the time. However, these women faced backlash and were often accused of neglecting their maternal responsibilities to pursue their cause. It is important to note that certain suffragette groups primarily advocated for the enfranchisement of white women and excluded black women from their ranks. The state of Tahoma sits at a point straddling conservation and progression- as suffragettes push the envelope and work towards gaining the rights limited to them by prejudice, law and practice. Debate rages in the State Government about whether or not to sign into law the recognition of woman's sufferage. Fashion Fashion in 1899 underwent significant changes, departing from the glamorous and extravagant styles of the Gilded Age. The economic and political climate of the progressive era influenced the evolution of fashion, particularly in women's clothing. Gone were the days of long, cumbersome dresses as women embraced a new sense of freedom and practicality, opting for looser blouses and skirts. The loose blouse and skirts of the era were not merely fashion choices; they symbolized the changing role of women in society. Some experts argue that these garments represented a shift towards a more progressive era where women took on greater responsibilities. However, conservative individuals often criticized these looser styles, associating them with lax morals and values. Nevertheless, even among the wealthier elite, fancy dresses for social occasions were becoming more akin to the working woman's attire, albeit with exaggerated shoulders and an array of patterns and colors influenced by European fashion trends. Men's fashion in 1899 varied depending on one's occupation and social standing. Working-class men dressed according to practicality, donning overalls or work pants for their daily labor. Wealthier individuals had more choices and often opted for brightly colored garments to signify their status and affluence during social gatherings. However, for their daily work in banks or corporations, they preferred more somber and austere attire, such as suit jackets, vests, and ties. As for accessories, hats were an essential part of every man's daily dress, regardless of their status. Wealthier men took great pride in sporting elaborate, European-made pocket watches and often adorned themselves with monocles or glasses to further showcase their refinement. In terms of grooming, both men and women paid close attention to their personal appearance. Neatly groomed hair was the norm, while unkempt facial hair and long, dirty locks were considered uncouth and generally frowned upon by society. The fashion landscape of 1899 reflects the changing societal dynamics of the progressive era, where practicality, functionality, and evolving gender roles played a significant role in shaping clothing choices and personal styles. Music The late Victorian era witnessed the emergence of a revolutionary music genre known as ragtime, which coincided with the invention and widespread use of the phonograph. At the forefront of this musical movement stood Scott Joplin, a gifted composer and pianist who would come to be known as the "king of ragtime." Despite the widespread appeal of Joplin's music among young people, his journey to fame was met with controversy due to his African-American heritage. The Victorian parents and the older generation, driven by their conservative values and concerns about societal morality, harbored reservations about ragtime and its potential influence on their children. They held a general wariness towards any music perceived as "black," fearing it would lead to the erosion of their established social norms. Nevertheless, Joplin's 1899 composition, "Maple Leaf Rag," emerged as the undeniable anthem of late Victorian and early Edwardian society. Its infectious melodies and lively rhythms resonated with audiences across all classes, permeating homes, dance halls, and public gatherings. The popularity of "Maple Leaf Rag" cemented Joplin's place in music history, defying the prejudices and biases that sought to diminish his contributions. As ragtime swept the nation, another musical form began to make its presence felt. Originating in the African-American communities of Saint Denis, "jass" music, later renamed as jazz, blended elements of blues and ragtime to create a distinctive sound. This genre would experience a meteoric rise in popularity during the 1920s, and its influence remains pervasive in contemporary music to this day. In addition to ragtime and jazz, the late Victorian era witnessed a surge in musical theaters, plays, and the advent of cinema, or moving pictures, imported from Paris. These forms of entertainment captivated audiences in high society and major cities alike, offering a respite from the demands of daily life. Musical theater productions and cinematic experiences became cultural phenomena, providing a platform for storytelling, artistic expression, and the integration of ragtime tunes into narratives that captured the imagination of the masses. The musical landscape of the late Victorian era was a tapestry of innovation, resistance, and cultural transformation. Through ragtime, jazz, and the allure of musical theaters and cinema, the era reflected the dynamic shifts in society, challenged conventions, and paved the way for the vibrant musical expressions that would shape the decades to come. Religion and Beliefs The religious landscape in America is deeply rooted in the early formation of the nation and the arrival of white European settlers in the New World. The Separatists, also known as dissenting pilgrims, were among the first religious groups to make their mark in America. Arriving on the Mayflower centuries ago, they sought to distance themselves from the English clergy who were unwilling to embrace Protestantism. The American people embraced this spirit of independence, and their Protestant identities soon became intertwined with their sense of American patriotism and overall character. However, the religious fabric of the United States is also shaped by the principles enshrined in the First Amendment of the Constitution. This amendment explicitly states that "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." This constitutional protection has attracted individuals with diverse religious beliefs, spanning Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and various African and Asian religions. Despite the challenges faced by these religious minorities, who often encountered persecution stemming from the predominantly Puritanical mindset of early American thought, they managed to exist and, in many cases, thrive in the country. Over time, these diverse groups mingled with one another, establishing their own communities and contributing to the rich tapestry of American religious life. Christianity, in its various denominations, remains the dominant religion in the United States. However, the country's religious landscape has continued to evolve, welcoming new expressions of faith and fostering a climate of religious freedom. Communities of Jewish, Muslim, African, and Asian religions have found their place in America, enriching the cultural and spiritual fabric of the nation. The freedom to practice religion, as protected by the First Amendment, has allowed individuals and communities to freely express their beliefs, foster dialogue, and contribute to the broader tapestry of American society. This ongoing interplay of diverse religious traditions and beliefs reflects the enduring commitment to religious freedom and pluralism that defines the United States. Gangs and birth of the Mob As the 19th century progressed, the transition from the lawlessness of the Wild West to more structured and interpersonal organized crime was evident. A notable development during this period was the emergence of the Black Hand, a new criminal tactic where gangs offered businesses within their territory protection from thieves, rival factions, and themselves. Business owners were expected to provide payment for this safeguard, ensuring their relative safety. This period also witnessed a significant wave of immigration, particularly in the southern regions of the United States, contributing to the rise of the Italian mob and the proliferation of organized crime across the country. These gangs were often smaller in size, typically comprising no more than 20 individuals. While remnants of Wild West-style crimes still persisted, they became less common and less lucrative compared to the urban gangs and mafias that operated within the cities. During the transition from the Old West to the end of the Victorian era, Tahoma, specifically the city of Saint Denis, emerged as a prominent hub for various crime families, encompassing Italian, Irish, and even Chinese origins. One notable criminal organization, the Saint Denis mob, was established by Angelo Bronte prior to 1899. The mob engaged in a range of illegal activities, including bribery, defrauding city officials, smuggling, and racketeering. The corrupting influence of the mob extended to the Saint Denis Police Department, which turned a blind eye to their criminal activities in exchange for regular payoffs. Apart from the notorious Bronte Crime Family, a vast network of smaller crime families operated within the city. The influx of young and able-bodied immigrants provided these crime families with a continuous supply of easily impressionable individuals who could be manipulated for their own purposes. These crime families varied in size, ranging from small groups confined to specific buildings or areas, consisting of just a few people, to sprawling organizations with connections to politics, business, and the underworld throughout the entire city. While the Sicilian or Italian mafia is the most widely known, it's important to note that Irish, Chinese, Dutch, Jewish, and other ethnic groups were also involved in organized crime, sometimes working together and other times as rivals. The criminal landscape was brutal, and even members within the mafia ranks were not exempt from danger. Deception and violence were prevalent tactics, with members often being lured or tricked into vulnerable situations where they could be eliminated en masse. Additionally, mafia members would pose as police officers, executing fake firing squads to eliminate rival gangs, who remained unaware of the ruse. 10 4 1 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dark_Knight Posted January 1 Share Posted January 1 Updated: The year is now 1900, Happy New Year! 1 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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