Mafia in the United States - HISTORY

The Mafioso adhered to this strict code of silence when dealing with the law. Death was the almost certain punishment for violators.

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A news report updates the proceedings of the 1963 Valachi hearings, a Congressional inquiry into organized crime. Joseph Valachi, a low-ranking member of the New York-based Genovese crime family, agreed to take the stand and inform on members of the national crime syndicate La Cosa Nostra, also known as the Mafia.

Yugoslavia's President Joseph Broz Tito, makes his first visit to the United States in October 1963. He expresses his gratitude to Americans for their welcoming greetings.

On September 26, 1971, President Richard Nixon welcomed Japan's Emperor Hirohito to the United States for what was the first meeting in history between the emperor of Japan and the president of the United States. Following Nixon's introduction, Hirohito expresses his gratitude for America's assistance in helping to rebuild Japan after World War II.

On November 9, 1965, the biggest power failure in U.S. history plunged New York, seven neighboring states and much of eastern Canada into darkness. While Consolidated Edison struggles to locate the cause and repair the problem, a radio broadcast informs the public about the emergency situation.

On March 24, 1999, after Serbian leaders refused to discuss peace and instead launched an attack against Kosovo, the United States joined forces with NATO in airstrikes against Serbian forces. In an address to the nation, President Bill Clinton explains why the military action is necessary.

What was America's first capital city? The answer might surprise you.