Review of Operation Underworld: How the Mafia and U.S. Government Teamed Up to Win World War II by Matthew Black
Have you ever stumbled upon a story so unexpected that it challenges everything you think you know about history? That’s how I felt when I picked up Operation Underworld by Matthew Black. The thought of the U.S. government partnering with organized crime to combat the Axis during World War II was both fascinating and a little outrageous. My sincere thanks go to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing an advanced copy; this book has genuinely opened my eyes to the unusual alliances formed during a tumultuous time in history.
At its core, Operation Underworld serves as a captivating exploration of the intersection between crime and government—an unlikely partnership fueled by desperation. As Black masterfully explains, the early days of the war were dire for the United States. With German U-Boats wreaking havoc off the coast, the Navy was left scrambling for solutions. The idea of collaborating with notorious mob figures like Charlie "Lucky" Luciano might seem laughable at first, but as Black details the urgency of the situation, it starts to make sense. This very alliance was born out of fear, pragmatism, and a need for control on the docks—an exhilarating revelation that propels the narrative forward.
The book traverses the murky waters of this unusual relationship, emphasizing the complexities that come with it. What impressed me most was how Black interweaves historical facts with vivid storytelling. Despite some imaginative forays into the characters’ thoughts, which he justifies in a thoughtful afterword, I found myself easily swept up in the atmospheric detailing of both mob and military operations. The dichotomy between the honor-bound world of the military and the cutthroat nature of organized crime is presented with an insightful, almost cinematic quality. Black does an excellent job evoking the era’s tension and urgency.
One particularly striking element was how the Navy’s willingness to work with the Mafia was shrouded in secrecy—records were destroyed, and those involved were quietly threatened to ensure silence. The fear of repercussions adds a thrilling edge, akin to a well-crafted crime thriller, yet it’s rooted in the stark reality of wartime decisions. It had me pondering the moral ambiguities that arise when survival is at stake.
As I flipped through the pages, I appreciated how the book doesn’t glorify the partnership; instead, it raises poignant questions about who truly benefited from this alliance. The encounters between mobsters and Navy officials are laced with both dark humor and serious implications. One laughable moment involved an officer receiving an extravagant gift of lobsters—just one of many anecdotes that add a touch of levity amid tension.
I wholeheartedly recommend Operation Underworld to readers who have a penchant for both history and true crime. It serves as a treasure trove of information—rich with details about mob activities and military life throughout the war. For those who relish alternative histories, Jack Higgins’ Luciano’s Luck might serve as an intriguing companion piece.
Ultimately, this book made me reflect on how sometimes the most unlikely partnerships can emerge in times of crisis, each side armed with its own motives. If you find yourself fascinated by the blurred lines of morality amidst chaos, be sure to pick up Operation Underworld. It may just change the way you view both history and the complexities of human alliances.
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