Part 8/12:
Having initially spared Costello, Genovese recognized that the older mobster remained a threat. The political ramifications of Costello’s survival compelled Genovese to act decisively. With the backing of critical figures within the Mafia, Genovese orchestrated a plan to eliminate Costello's power altogether. By this time, Genovese had already begun solidifying his own influence, even incorporating drug trafficking into his operations—a move that many of the older Mafia members found unsettling.
In a decisive meeting with Mob leaders on October 25, 1957, Genovese eliminated Albert Anastasia, a significant rival. With Anastasia gone, Genovese declared himself the boss, ultimately usurping Costello, who conceded and agreed to retreat from mob activity altogether.