Meyer Lansky was a notorious American gangster in the early 20th century, whose last name has led to some confusion over its spelling. As per the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), 'Meyer' is pronounced /ˈmaɪər/ ('my-er'), while 'Lansky' is pronounced /ˈlænski/ ('lans-kee'). The name has been spelled in various ways, including "Lanski" and "Lanskis," but the most commonly accepted spelling is "Lansky". However, due to the unofficial nature of the spelling, it is often spelled incorrectly in various publications.
Meyer Lansky was an influential figure in the American organized crime scene during the mid-20th century. Born on July 4, 1902, in Grodno, in present-day Belarus, Lansky immigrated to the United States with his family in 1911. He became known as a prominent mobster and a key figure in the development of organized crime syndicates, particularly the Jewish mob in New York City known as the "Kosher Nostra."
Lansky was a mastermind when it came to gambling operations and is often regarded as one of the pioneers of modern casino gaming in Las Vegas. He played a crucial role in the establishment of the Mafia's control over several casinos in the city, using his expertise in gambling and finances to launder money and ensure profitable operations. His influence extended beyond the gambling world, as he was also involved in various illegal activities such as bootlegging and narcotics trafficking.
Despite his involvement in criminal activities, Lansky was known for his charisma, intelligence, and business acumen. He was highly skilled in consolidating power, forging alliances, and avoiding direct confrontation with the law. Lansky managed to evade conviction for most of his criminal activities and remained a powerful figure within the American mob until his death on January 15, 1983.
Lansky's life and career have been extensively documented and portrayed in popular culture, solidifying his reputation as one of the most important and influential mobsters in American history.
The name "Meyer Lansky" is not derived from any particular etymology or language. "Meyer Lansky" is the anglicized name of the American organized crime figure born as Maier Suchowljansky in Grodno, which was then part of the Russian Empire (now Belarus) in 1902. After immigrating to the United States, he changed his name to Meyer Lansky. The reasons for choosing this particular name or its origins are not well-documented. It seems to be a personal choice made by Lansky himself.