Italian mob?

Question:

Italian mob?

I am looking for information on a relative named Giuseppe Rao. From what I understand, he was in the Italian mob, not sure of the time frame, but I believe it was in the early 1900's. Can anyone tell me how to find out more about him? Any help would be appreciated.

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: The more exact details you have concerning a person, the better your chances of finding relevant background information. Dig up the "regular" stuff, so you can put him in a specific time and place. If you can find an obituary, that may be of special help. It might tell you he worked many years for ABC dairy.. but other records might show ABC Dairy was a well known bootleg outfit.
When you have that.. you may even locate criminal records to back up your family traditions. You could also google something like "Chicago mafia" or "Boston crime stories". I know of one email list titled something like "blacksheep" descendents, where members are related to known murderers and so forth. You could also make contact with the reference librarian in the right area, and ask for leads.
Hmm... I even googled the name and find someone of that same name, who seems to be somewhat prestigious in Italian government now? I'd cultivate family members who are willing to share memories, but be discreet, as they may be cautious about old scandals.