In the early 1970s, drug consumption took a new turn. Drugs found their place in the American middle class. Twenty years earlier (in 1950), it was estimated that there were 50,000 addicts, and twenty years later there were 500,000. This explosion of consumers is partly explained by the Vietnam War, which had been raging for a decade. American soldiers sought refuge in drugs to escape the horrors of war. Among those returning home, 15% were “addicted” to heroin.
The president at the time, Richard Nixon, declared that “public enemy number one” in the United States was drugs. About 80% of the drugs entering Uncle Sam’s country came from France, specifically from Marseille, through the French Connection. French legislation had to toughen penalties, causing the drug refineries to move to Palermo. Over 1,000 kilos of heroin were produced in one week.
The Sicilian mafia was at the height of its power. Gaetano Badalamenti became the world’s largest trafficker. His significant advantage was partly ruling over Palermo’s airport, a stronghold in the organization of the import and export of narcotics. Consequently, Badalamenti’s job was made much easier, as he could position his henchmen to maintain total control of the area, preventing leaks of information and cargo. The customs authorities present checked the suitcases for weapons, not paying attention to the drugs.
