In 1986, 30 million Americans witnessed Geraldo Rivera opening a vault beneath Chicago's Lexington Hotel, the former home of Al Capone, expecting to find cash and weapons but uncovering only dirt and old bottles. This episode delves into Chicago's historical battle over alcohol, highlighting events from the Lager Beer Riot of 1855 to the underground networks that fueled Prohibition-era crime.
The discussion includes the tunnels connecting venues such as the Green Mill and Aragon Ballroom, as well as urban myths about the city's secret freight tunnels. The truths behind Al Capone's operations illustrate that he didn't rely on hidden railways; rather, he maintained control of the city above ground. However, the hidden depths below remain an intriguing subject for exploration.
#Chicago #AlCapone #Prohibition
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