The Green Felt Jungle

The Green Felt Jungle (1963) exposes the criminal underworld of Las Vegas during its early development. Written by journalists Ovid Demaris and Ed Reid, this investigative work became a New York Times Best Seller for 23 weeks. The book examines the complex network of organized crime figures who controlled Las Vegas casinos in the mid-20th century. Through detailed reporting, it reveals the connections between gambling operations, political corruption, and various illegal activities that shaped the city's growth. The narrative features prominent figures like Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegel, Gus Greenbaum, and Benny Binion, documenting their roles in Las Vegas's evolution. This work captures a crucial period before corporate ownership transformed the city's casino industry. As a historical document, The Green Felt Jungle serves as both a warning about unchecked criminal influence and a chronicle of a unique moment in American urban development. The book raises enduring questions about the relationship between vice, economic development, and political power.

Readers view this 1963 exposé of Las Vegas as sensationalistic but entertaining. The book portrays organized crime's influence on early Vegas casino operations through interviews and investigative reporting. Readers appreciate: - Behind-the-scenes details about casino operations - Historical context of Vegas' development - Accessible writing style for a complex topic - Photos and documentation of key figures Common criticisms: - Many claims lack clear sources or verification - Some factual errors and exaggerations - Dated perspective from 1960s viewpoint - Overly dramatic tone One reader noted: "More like tabloid journalism than serious history, but still fascinating." Another commented: "The research seems thin, yet it captures the shadowy atmosphere of that era." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (147 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (38 ratings) The book is out of print but maintains interest among Vegas history enthusiasts despite questions about its accuracy.

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Murder in Vegas by Jeff German Chronicles the investigations into notorious Las Vegas murders, rackets, and criminal enterprises from the 1970s through the 1990s.

Desert Shadows by Roger Morris This investigation traces organized crime's influence on Las Vegas politics and business through documented connections between politicians, casino owners, and crime families.

The Money and the Power by Sally Denton, Roger Morris A history of Las Vegas that reveals the relationships between organized crime, business leaders, and government officials who shaped the city's development.

🎲 The book was banned from all Las Vegas hotel gift shops upon its 1963 release due to its explosive revelations about casino operations and mob connections. 🏰 After reading "The Green Felt Jungle," Howard Hughes became so concerned about mob influence in Las Vegas that it partially motivated his decision to purchase multiple casino properties in the late 1960s. 📚 Ovid Demaris went on to write more than 20 books about organized crime, including collaborations with notorious mobster Mickey Cohen and Jimmy "The Weasel" Fratianno. 🎬 The research and revelations in the book influenced Martin Scorsese's 1995 film "Casino," particularly regarding the skimming operations detailed in the original exposé. 🏜️ The book's title, "The Green Felt Jungle," became a widely used nickname for Las Vegas throughout the 1960s and 1970s, referencing both the casino gaming tables and the city's wild, untamed nature.