Frank Lucas experiences a rough ride in the second half of the 1980s, and he hits rock bottom in the early 1990s. But when he is at his lowest point, one of his brothers throws him a lifeline. Frank finally leaves the heroin business, but he still struggles in the legitimate world… until he achieves worldwide fame as the subject of the Hollywood film “American Gangster,” though the movie stirs up nearly as much controversy as it does money at the box office.

Check out these great books about Frank Lucas, Bumpy Johnson, and Harlem crime:

“Harlem Godfather” by Mayme Johnson and Karen E. Quinones Miller

“Original Gangster” by Frank Lucas and Aliya S. King

Thanks to our sponsor, Quince! Use this link for Free Shipping and 365-day returns:

Quince.com/infamousamerica

Thanks to our sponsor, Mood! For 20% off of your first order, use the promo code INFAMOUS at Mood.com

Join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: blackbarrel.supportingcast.fm/join

Apple users join Black Barrel+ for ad-free episodes, bingeable seasons and bonus episodes. Click the Black Barrel+ banner on Apple to get started with a 3-day free trial.

On YouTube, subscribe to INFAMOUS+ for ad-free episodes and bingeable seasons: hit “Join” on the Legends YouTube homepage.

For more details, please visit www.blackbarrelmedia.com or @blackbarrelmedia on Instagram.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices