The Enigmatic Founder of Las Vegas Gambling: A Deep Dive into the Story of Benny Binion

Introduction:

Las Vegas, the city of lights and sin, has long been synonymous with gambling. But who was the mastermind behind the gambling industry's rise in this iconic city? This article delves into the fascinating story of Benny Binion, the man who founded Las Vegas gambling.

1. Benny Binion's Early Life:

Born Benjamin "Benny" Binion in 1894 in New Orleans, Louisiana, Benny Binion was the son of a brothel owner. Growing up in a world of vice and crime, Benny was exposed to the seedy underbelly of society from a young age. This early exposure would shape his future and ultimately lead him to Las Vegas.

2. Benny Binion's Rise in the Mob:

After serving time in prison for bootlegging during Prohibition, Benny Binion joined the mob. He quickly rose through the ranks, working under the notorious crime boss Bugsy Siegel. Benny's ruthless nature and cunning mind made him a valuable asset to the mob, and he soon became one of its most influential members.

3. The Birth of Las Vegas Gambling:

In the 1940s, Benny Binion and his business partner, Meyer Lansky, saw the potential for a new gambling haven in Nevada. They decided to create a place where people could come and gamble without the fear of being arrested. In 1941, they opened the El Cortez Hotel and Casino, which would later become the foundation of Las Vegas' gambling empire.

4. Benny Binion's Influence on Las Vegas:

Benny Binion's influence on Las Vegas cannot be overstated. He was the driving force behind the city's transformation from a dusty desert town to a world-renowned gambling destination. Benny was known for his high-stakes poker games, which drew celebrities and high rollers from all over the world. He also had a knack for attracting top talent, including the legendary Frank Sinatra, who performed at Binion's Horseshoe Casino.

5. Benny Binion's Legacy:

Benny Binion passed away in 1989, but his legacy continues to live on in Las Vegas. Today, the Benny Binion Poker Classic, one of the most prestigious poker tournaments in the world, is named in his honor. The story of Benny Binion and his contributions to Las Vegas gambling serves as a reminder of the city's dark and tumultuous past.

Questions and Answers:

1. Q: How did Benny Binion get involved in the mob?

A: Benny Binion joined the mob after serving time in prison for bootlegging during Prohibition. He quickly rose through the ranks, working under the notorious crime boss Bugsy Siegel.

2. Q: What was Benny Binion's role in the creation of Las Vegas gambling?

A: Benny Binion, along with his business partner Meyer Lansky, opened the El Cortez Hotel and Casino in 1941, which would later become the foundation of Las Vegas' gambling empire.

3. Q: Who was Benny Binion's business partner in the creation of Las Vegas gambling?

A: Benny Binion's business partner in the creation of Las Vegas gambling was Meyer Lansky.

4. Q: What was Benny Binion's most significant contribution to Las Vegas?

A: Benny Binion's most significant contribution to Las Vegas was his influence on the city's transformation from a dusty desert town to a world-renowned gambling destination. He was known for his high-stakes poker games and attracting top talent to Las Vegas.

5. Q: How did Benny Binion's legacy influence Las Vegas today?

A: Benny Binion's legacy continues to influence Las Vegas today through the Benny Binion Poker Classic, one of the most prestigious poker tournaments in the world, which is named in his honor.