Part 5/9:
A High-Stakes Game: The Entertainment Era
The growth of the Mafia coincided with an era of unparalleled entertainment in Las Vegas, featuring artists like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, who drew high rollers from all walks of life. The mob recognized that attracting entertainers would ensure a steady influx of visitors to their establishments and began hosting major events such as golf tournaments and boxing matches.
By the 1960s, Las Vegas had transformed into a major entertainment destination, utilizing top-level performers and lavish shows to lure both tourists and high-stake gamblers. However, amidst this flourishing environment, cracks began to appear in the Mafia's stronghold as federal authorities ramped up efforts to eradicate organized crime.