Prohibition

When the U.S. government passed the Volstead Act in 1920, the early 20th century Mafia took the opportunity to create a new import business. Arnold Rothstein, Meyer’s mentor, quickly set up liquor bootlegging with his Syndicate partners, including Meyer, who owned a car and truck rental business for cover and distribution. Meyer and his best friend, Benny Siegel, also opened the first Speakeasies, with Meyer’s only brother, Jack, managing the clubs. The spoils of Prohibition would fund their future businesses.