United States

The American Civil War was marked by significant battles and military campaigns, the Union's victory gave birth to the United States as a single nation and affirmed the federal government's supremacy over state governments. Slavery was formally abolished throughout the nation with the ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment in 1865.

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# Spanish-American War

The war's outcome, with the Union's victory, cemented the authority of the federal government over the states. It established the principle that secession was not permissible and that the United States was an indivisible nation. The concept of states' rights, which had been a major point of contention leading up to the war, was significantly curtailed.

However, Reconstruction was marred by resistance from white Southerners, the rise of discriminatory practices such as Black Codes and Jim Crow laws, and the eventual abandonment of many Reconstruction policies.

The nation's industrial output surged, fueled by advancements in manufacturing, transportation, and communication technologies. This era saw the rise of powerful industrialists and businessmen who amassed great wealth and influence. The frontier continued to be pushed westward, with settlers and entrepreneurs venturing into new territories, driven by a sense of manifest destiny and the quest for land, resources, and economic opportunities.

These developments set the stage for the emergence of the Spanish-American War in 1898. Several factors contributed to the outbreak of the conflict. Longstanding tensions between the United States and Spain, stemming from territorial disputes and conflicts of interest, intensified during this period. The sinking of the USS Maine in Havana harbor in 1898 further inflamed public sentiment and fueled calls for war. Although the exact cause of the explosion remains disputed, it served as a catalyst for the conflict.

The Spanish-American War had significant implications for the United States on multiple fronts. Firstly, it marked the country's emergence as a global power. Prior to the war, the United States had primarily focused on domestic affairs and continental expansion. However, the conflict propelled the nation onto the international stage, where it would exert influence and pursue its interests in a broader context.

Secondly, the war reflected the broader trend of imperialism and territorial acquisition by major powers during the late 19th century. The United States, like other world powers, sought to expand its influence and control over overseas territories. Through the Treaty of Paris in 1898, which ended the war, the United States acquired several territories, including the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico.

# Discovery of Giants

In the year 1833, amidst the picturesque region of Lake Delavan, Wisconsin, local newspapers were ablaze with reports of a sensational discovery.

Astonishing accounts surfaced, claiming that colossal humanoid remains had been unearthed from the depths of the earth. The community was swept up in a whirlwind of excitement and wonder, envisioning the existence of a forgotten race of giants.

Lake Delavan quickly became a bustling view-site, drawing crowds eager to catch a glimpse of these ancient enigmas.

However, as time unfolded, an unexpected twist occurred. The exposed giant bones, exposed to the air for too long, began a perplexing transformation. They gradually crumbled into delicate dust, leaving behind nothing but fading memories and unanswered questions.

Years later, in the summer of 1869, the rugged landscapes of Kanawha Valley, West Virginia, set the stage for a daring archaeological excavation.

Among the artifacts discovered by intrepid explorers, a skeleton of colossal proportions emerged—an eight-foot giant that once again captivated the public's imagination.

But alas, the ephemeral nature of these mysterious beings manifested once more. Within a matter of days, the giant skeleton too succumbed to a transformation, dissolving into dust, leaving behind a trail of perplexed observers and newspaper articles that recounted the fleeting encounter.

As the late 19th century unfolded, tales of giant human skeletons whispered across the continent, reaching far-flung corners like California, Ohio, and Tennessee.

These stories possessed an irresistible allure, recounting the unearthing of colossal remains that defied the laws of human proportions.

Vivid depictions emerged, conjuring images of an ancient civilization where mighty giants traversed the land. However, once again, the touch of eager hands proved fateful.

The moment these gigantic bones were handled, they disintegrated into dust, leaving behind only the remnants of newspaper articles that had captivated the discoveries.

Newspapers soon became hosts to articles embellishing tales of mythological wars, where these giants were said to have consumed humans.

These articles resurfaced years later, adding fuel to the enduring fascination.

Then, in the vibrant city of East St. Louis, Illinois, in the year 1903, the local newspaper boldly proclaimed the unearthing of a race of giants.

According to the sensational article, these colossal beings, measuring between seven and eleven feet tall, defied the norms of human existence.

The city buzzed with excitement as the tales of giant human skeletons spread across North America.

Yet, as fate would have it, these giants met the same ephemeral destiny. Placed in the St. Louis Museum, they too crumbled into dust, leaving behind nothing more than perplexed onlookers and  photographs.

Curiosity intertwined with the discoveries of giant lizards—the dinosaurs found in 1841, 1877, 1898, 1902, and 1905.

Speculations emerged, weaving tales of pet dinosaurs kept by the giants, fueling the people's imagination.

The first fictional books began to take shape, crafting stories of heroic battles against the mighty Triceratops kingdom.

Art, too, embarked on a fictional journey, painting captivating tales that blended reality with imagination. "The Lair of the White Worm" by Bram Stoker was Published in 1911, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "The Lost World” in 1912, and others. It was a time of transformation, where the realms of art, theater, and music merged together, weaving a tapestry of creativity that would shape the societies to come.

# World War I

The United States declared war on the German Empire on April 6, 1917, nearly three years after World War I was started. A ceasefire and armistice were declared on November 11, 1918. Before entering the war, the U.S. had remained neutral.

The U.S. made its major contributions in terms of supplies, raw material, and money, starting in 1917. American soldiers under General of the Armies John Pershing, Commander-in-Chief of the American Expeditionary Force (AEF), arrived at the rate of 10,000 men a day on the Western Front in the summer of 1918. During the war, the U.S. mobilized over 4.7 million military personnel and suffered the loss of over 116,000 soldiers.

By the summer of 1918, about 2 million U.S. soldiers had arrived in France, the United States Navy sent a battleship group to Scapa Flow to join with the British Grand Fleet, destroyers to Queenstown, Ireland and submarines to help guard convoys. Several regiments of Marines were also dispatched to France.

On the battlefields of France the Americans won a victory at Cantigny, then again in defensive stands at Chateau-Thierry and Belleau Wood. Pershing continued to commit troops to these full-frontal attacks, resulting in high casualties without noticeable military success, nevertheless, the Allies achieved victory over the German Empire on November 11, 1918.

# The American Dream

The gold standard was a monetary system where the value of a american's currency was directly linked to a fixed amount of gold. Under this system, individuals could exchange their paper currency for a specified amount of gold. The gold standard aimed to prevent excessive inflation and maintain the stability of the currency. However, it also had its limitations. The supply of gold was finite, which meant that the growth of the money supply was tied to the availability of gold reserves. This restriction sometimes posed challenges, especially during periods of economic expansion when the demand for money increased.

Life in the United States during this time was marked by rapid industrialization and urbanization. Cities expanded, skyscrapers rose, and technological advancements revolutionized daily life. The nation was buzzing with energy and ambition, driven by the ideals of progress and prosperity.

Societal norms reflected the prevailing values of the time. The Roaring Twenties, as they were often called, saw a spirit of liberation and cultural change. The legacy of slavery still loomed large in the United States, despite its official abolition in 1865. African Americans faced systemic racism and discrimination, particularly in the southern states where segregation was deeply entrenched. Jim Crow laws enforced racial segregation, denying Black Americans access to equal opportunities and resources.

In these times New York City become a symbol of the American Dream, where fortunes could be made overnight no matter the cost or morality.

Among those seeking their fortunes was John Anderson, a young and ambitious stockbroker.

He had tasted success, and his thirst for more knew no bounds. Day after day, he watched the stock market soar to dizzying heights, fueled by speculation and the belief that the good times would never end.

The economy was built on a house of cards, with risky loans, inflated stock prices, and unchecked greed at its core.  As the days turned into weeks, the signs of impending disaster were evident, but the euphoria of easy money blinded many. People continued to invest in the stock market, driven by the fear of missing out on the next big opportunity.

In the midst of this economic frenzy, society norms were shifting. Lavish parties and salons were thrown by the wealthy elite, flaunting their prosperity and opulence. The upper class reveled in their newfound wealth, indulging in excesses that seemed boundless.

Yet, hidden amidst the glitz and glamour were the grim realities of life in the United States. Many people struggled to make ends meet, barely scraping by on meager wages. The disparity between the rich and the poor grew wider with each passing day, further straining the social fabric of the nation.

In search of better lives, countless families migrated westward, hoping to find relief from the economic hardships of the cities. They formed makeshift camps and shantytowns, known as "Hoovervilles," named after President Herbert Hoover, who was widely blamed for the economic catastrophe.

The stock market's meteoric rise was unsustainable, and on a fateful day known as “Black Tuesday”, October 29, 1929, the bubble burst. Stock prices plummeted, and investors rushed to sell their shares, leading to a catastrophic crash. In a matter of hours, fortunes were wiped out, leaving countless families destitute.

The Great Depression had begun, and its effects rippled through every aspect of American life. Banks collapsed, businesses shuttered, and unemployment soared to unprecedented levels. The once vibrant society was now paralyzed by despair and uncertainty.

The nation grappled with the harsh realities of its own excesses and shortcomings. It was a painful lesson in humility, as the pursuit of wealth and power had led to a collective downfall.

Amidst the economic turmoil, a different kind of drama unfolded. Notorious bank robbers captured the public's imagination, symbolizing rebellion against the harsh realities of the times. John Dillinger, with Bonnie and Clyde, a daring couple on a crime spree, became media sensations.

# Rise of Mafia

Beneath the surface, a different reality unfolded. The country was in a time when the production and sale of alcoholic beverages were banned. This gave rise to a new breed of criminals who saw an opportunity in the illicit trade.

In the year 1843, in the bustling city of New York, two Italian immigrant families arrived in the land of opportunity. The first family, the Rossi family, consisted of Antonio and Maria Rossi, a hardworking couple determined to make a name for themselves. The second family, the Marino family, comprised Vincenzo and Rosa Marino, filled with ambition and dreams of prosperity.

Antonio Rossi, decided to open an Italian tavern upon their arrival. With his wife Maria's culinary skills and their shared passion for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, the Rossi Tavern became a hub for the local Italian community to gather, indulge in delicious food, and share stories of their homeland.

Vincenzo Marino, on the other hand, possessed a robust physique and a passion for wrestling. He pursued his dreams, honing his skills in the wrestling circuit. Known as "I Leone" for his fierce determination and unmatched strength, Vincenzo became a local sensation, capturing the hearts of both fans and critics alike.

In the year 1867, Vincenzo's son, Marco Marino, an ambitious and spirited young man, found himself captivated by the Rossi Tavern and his girlfriend, Isabella, a vibrant and enchanting young woman.

As the couple entered the bustling tavern, the aroma of Italian cuisine filled the air, and the lively chatter of patrons resonated around them. Antonio Rossi, with a welcoming smile, greeted Marco and Isabella, eager to make their visit a memorable one. Maria Rossi prepared a table for the couple, creating an intimate space amidst the vibrant atmosphere.

Marco and Isabella sat, their eyes locked, their hearts beating in sync. They immersed themselves in the delightful ambiance, savoring the flavors of homemade pasta and sipping on rich, velvety red wine. The evening unfolded like a romantic symphony, as the Rossi Tavern served as the backdrop for their blossoming love.

Isabella's father, Giovanni Romano storms into the tavern, unleashing a torrent of gunshots that instantly claim the lives of everyone present, except for Maria Rossi, who happened to be in the kitchen.

As the echoes of the shots fade away, Maria emerges from the kitchen, aghast at the horrifying scene before her. Her husband Antonio and their daughter, along with Isabella and Marco Marino, lie lifeless amidst the bloodbath.

With tears still staining her face, Maria rushed to Vincenzo's home to share the tragic news and implore him for assistance. Vincenzo was now faced with a father's worst nightmare. Filled with sorrow and anger, he embraced Maria and vowed to avenge the deaths of their loved ones.

Without hesitation, Vincenzo called upon his younger son, Enzo Marino, to rally support from other Italian families. As the sun began to rise on that fateful day, a formidable force of 10 armed Italians assembled, ready to seek justice for their fallen brethren. They marched through the streets of New York City, and encountered an another group of 15 Italian men, who was gathered by Giovanni Romano, in a call of honor. The two factions faced each other, their eyes reflecting a mix of sorrow, anger, and determination. The air was thick with tension as they prepared for battle.

The clash that followed was intense, with fury and sorrow fueling their every move. Both sides fought valiantly, each determined to prevail and bring justice to the fallen. The streets became a battleground, echoing with the sounds of gunfire.

When the dust settled, the cost of revenge had been heavy. 20 men lay dead, their lives sacrificed for the pursuit of justice and vengeance. Vincenzo Marino, his heart heavy with grief, emerged from the battle victorious. He had avenged the deaths of his son and the Rossi family, but the toll on his soul was immeasurable.

In the aftermath of the bloody battle, Vincenzo Marino found himself not only a victor but also a figure of great influence within the Italian-American community. The tragic events of that day had solidified his position as a leader.

Vincenzo, now known among his peers as "Il Capo," took advantage of this bond to establish a network of support and loyalty. Under his guidance, the group that had formed during the battle became a well-structured organization, drawing from the spirit of camaraderie that had fueled their fight for justice.

In the year 1869, Vincenzo Marino emerged as the true leader of New York City. And so, the birth of organized crime in the United States was marked by Vincenzo's reign, as he now controlled a network known as the "Black Hand."

As time went on, the mafia society gained power over law. As Sara Delano married James Roosevelt I  in 1880. Sara was born at the Delano Estate in the town of Newburgh, New York, to Warren Delano Jr. and Catherine Robbins Lyman. In 1862, Sara, her mother Catherine, and six brothers and sisters traveled to Hong Kong.

Where they joined Warren Delano who had resumed his business of trading in opium for the Mafia, Sara became a beloved young woman in the mafia society, and as fate would have it a golden opportunity as well when Franklin D. Roosevelt became Governor of New York in the 1928 state election.

By 1903, the Black Hand had expanded its reach, forming the "Black Hand Society" in the United States. This organization specialized in extortion and kidnapping, primarily targeting Italian immigrants who found themselves caught in its grip.

Then, in 1919, the Volstead Act was passed, officially enforcing Prohibition across the entire United States. The mafia wasted no time in taking advantage of the highly lucrative bootlegging business. Their influence over organized crime networks grew, tightening their grip on major cities like New York, Chicago, and Detroit. Prominent mafia families such as the Gambino, Genovese, Luciano, and Capone families emerged, solidifying their power during this tumultuous time.

Al Capone, established himself as a kingpin in the illegal alcohol trade. His operations thrived, and his influence extended far and wide. Organized crime syndicates controlled the flow of bootlegged liquor, creating a shadow economy that reaped profits from the vices of society.

In the heart of Chicago, in 1929, a violent clash erupted between the Italian-American mafia and Irish-American gangsters. Known as the Saint Valentine's Day Massacre, this brutal event witnessed the loss of seven members from Chicago's North Side Gang, led by the notorious George "Bugs" Moran. They fell victim to a fierce dispute with Al Capone's powerful South Side Italian gang, marking a turning point in the ruthless struggle for control.

Two years later, in 1931, the Castellammarese War, a bloody power struggle within the New York mafia, reached its climax. Salvatore Maranzano emerged as the victor, establishing himself as the boss of bosses. To maintain control and prevent future conflicts, Maranzano divided New York City's criminal enterprises among five major families, known as the "Five Families." This move brought a sense of order to the chaotic world of organized crime.

From 1933 to 1936, the Kefauver Committee, led by Senator Estes Kefauver, undertook a monumental investigation into organized crime. Public hearings were held across the country, raising awareness about the mafia's activities and the extent of its influence in the United States.

In 1935, one of the most prominent figures in the mafia, Charles "Lucky" Luciano, suffered a significant setback. He was convicted on charges of compulsory prostitution and sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 30 to 50 years.

Two years later, in 1937, a fateful event unfolded in Apalachin, New York. A major conference, known as the "Apalachin Meeting," was held at the home of Joseph "Joe the Barber" Barbara. Over 100 mafia leaders from across the country gathered, unaware that their meeting would draw the attention of law enforcement. The subsequent raid by authorities resulted in numerous arrests and a surge in scrutiny on organized crime.

Despite the setbacks and increased scrutiny brought about by the Apalachin Meeting, the Italian-American mafia proved its resilience and ability to adapt. The raid and subsequent attention served as a critical turning point, shaping the ongoing battle between law enforcement and the mafia, but the mafia society endured.

Recognizing the need to evolve, the mafia underwent a process of restructuring and decentralization. The traditional hierarchical structure gave way to smaller factions operating independently, minimizing the risk of exposure and infiltration. This adaptation allowed the mafia to continue its illicit activities while remaining elusive to law enforcement.

The scrutiny also prompted the mafia to explore new avenues for criminal enterprises. They recognized the potential profits in the illegal narcotics trade and swiftly infiltrated the distribution networks. The mafia's involvement in the drug trade enabled them to expand their influence and control while reaping immense financial gains.

Moreover, the mafia seized opportunities in legitimate businesses, using them as fronts for money laundering and revenue generation. Construction companies, waste management firms, and entertainment ventures became part of their intricate web, enabling them to legitimize their ill-gotten wealth and exert influence over various sectors of society.

Despite concerted efforts by law enforcement, the mafia continued to wield significant power and influence. Through a combination of bribery, corruption, and intimidation, they maintained control over politicians, law enforcement officials, and key figures in society. This network of protection allowed them to operate with relative impunity, shielding their criminal activities from law enforcement's prying eyes.

Franklin D. Roosevelt's political career took a significant turn. In 1932, he was elected as the 32nd President of the United States and assumed office in the midst of the Great Depression. Roosevelt implemented a series of economic and social reforms known as the New Deal, aimed at revitalizing the economy and providing relief to the American people.

The close advisor to the President, Harry Hopkins, stood at the heart of the Mafia Society, and Frank Costello, was named the official mafia boss.

In 1933, the 21st Amendment repealed the Prohibition, bringing an end to the era of illegal alcohol and diminishing the power of figures like Capone. Law enforcement efforts intensified, and in 1934, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was established. The focus shifted towards dismantling organized crime networks and restoring order.

Franklin D. Roosevelt and the Mafia etched the signing of the Banking Act of 1935, which introduced important changes to the structure and governance of the Federal Reserve System. The act shifted the power within the Federal Reserve away from private bankers and toward the federal government. It increased the role of the Federal Reserve Board, in setting monetary policy and gave the Mafia more influence in the appointment of Federal Reserve officials.  The Federal Reserve played a vital role in the later years and the U.S. financial system.