Business Wars The Birth of Vegas | Casino Combat | 4
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Aug 23, 2021 Las Vegas is under the mob's shadow, and change is on the horizon. Billionaire Howard Hughes seeks to reclaim control but finds himself battling against Kirk Kerkorian's ambitious plans for the Strip. The podcast dives into Hughes' obsessive decline and the fierce competition that shapes the city's future. Political intrigue and mob influence create a dramatic backdrop, revealing how key players navigated the chaotic casino landscape. Discover the tumultuous origins of the Las Vegas casino industry in this captivating tale.
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Hughes's Secret Arrival
- Howard Hughes, a reclusive billionaire, arrived in Las Vegas secretly by train in 1966.
- He was transported by mobster Johnny Rosselli to the Desert Inn, marking the start of his Vegas takeover.
Sawyer's Mob Crackdown
- Governor Grant Sawyer's strict regulations and the "Black Book" targeted mob control in Vegas casinos.
- However, this created tension with the FBI and other figures like Robert Kennedy.
Hughes Buys the Desert Inn
- Hughes bought the Desert Inn after refusing to leave, initially frustrating owner Moe Dalitz.
- His paranoia and unusual behavior created challenges in obtaining a gaming license, despite his wealth.
