THE MAFIA
Problems of Definition
Origins in Bourbon Sicily post 1812
Characteristics
Prime focus from Protection to Politics
Attempts to close Mafia down from 19th century to Mussolini
1945 Mafia regroups
Internal 'wars'
Modern Mafia: political and judicial corruption to renewed attempts to close it down
Will the Mafia ever disappear?
The books of John Dickie are probably the best detailed introduction in English:-
Mafia Brotherhoods
Cosa Nostra
Mafia Republic
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