Structure of the Mafia Families
by Krysta CardinaleThe structure of the Mafia, whether in the United States or in Sicily, has always been very defined. Just like its code of ethics and honor, the structure of the Mafia families is a time-honored tradition, and is respected and venerated by its members. Any disgracing of the structure or of a gangster’s place within it is punishable by death. Below is a brief summary of the Mafia food chain:
The Commission
The Commission is a consortium of family bosses who set the general policy for the Cosa Nostra. Their role at the top of the Mob ladder awards them the utmost respect. For that reason they have the last say in arguments and disagreements within families.
The Family
Various levels of mobsters are grouped together to make up a family, with each family swearing allegiance to a different boss.
1. Boss (AKA Don):
He acts as the head hooligan of the family. He is usually a senior member who has paid his dues over the years, and is now able to enjoy the benefits of power. He makes all of the decisions, and gives out orders to his underlings. He must be respected and obeyed without question.
2. Underboss:
The underboss is the number-two man in the family who controls the day-to-day operations.
3. Consigliere:
Italian for advisor/counselor, the consigliere counsels and gives advice to the boss. In technical terms, he is directly below the boss but does not give out orders.
4. Capo:
Short for Capodecina or Caporegime, he is the leader of a crew (or “decina,”) of 10 to 15 soldiers and oversees their work.
5. Soldier:
He is the on-the-street guy. He does the “dirty” work. As a made man, he may also have a few associates who hang around him.
6. Associate:
Since an associate is not yet a “made” man, he does the real down and dirty work, usually involving lots of hits. He hangs around the crew in the hopes of getting made.
