I think Joe Bonanno, was as powerful as any of the above,except for Maranzano's brief fling at the top.

Bonanno, through alliances with Profaci, Magadinno, Gagliano, and Mangano did influence the commision, and policy on the national scene, from the late 30's up to the early 60's.

This group, and variations of it, was the most powerful group on the commssion, for about 30 years, and they were very much influenced by Mr. Bonanno.

Gambino gets the credit for being the most powerful boss, but as Trunbull stated, he did not have the nationwide influence, and he also had the forture to be the boss, when Vito G was in jail. Tommy Luchese was dying of brain cancer. Joe Profaci died of cancer. Bonanno was weakend by his rift with Magadinno, who was egged on by Luchese.


One name not mentioned, who very well may have been the most powerful as a boss, was Tony Accardo. His word was law in Chicago and west from the early 40's til the late 80's. No one messed with the Tuna.

The Castelemarrese war was the biggest war, in terms of the people involved, and the changes that took place after the war was over.

Joe Columbo.

Nevr heard of Vito's list, but I'd bet it would make some interesting reading.

Another side note. Valachi was believed to be ratting out based on rumours started by a Buffalo NY soldier, who's brother was killed, after all three were arrested. The soldiers brother complained to Magaddino about how he, or his family was treated when he was in jail. Steve had him killed and his brother fearing he was next started the story that Joe V was talking to the feds to taske some heat off of him.