The Mafia and the Machine

the long version

The story of the American Mafia is not complete without a chapter on Kansas City--even Hollywood gives a nod to the "City of Fountains" in mafia films. Events unfolding in Kansas City have affected the fortunes of all the Mafia "families," shaping the entire underworld along the way. Author Frank Hayde chronicles the connection between organized crime and politics that originated with the alliance between political boss Tom Pendergast and mob boss Johnny Lazia. The story continues up to the present time, tying in every major name in organized crime--Luciano, Bugsy, Lansky--and highlighting the corrupt Kansas City police force.--From publisher description.