What is joe colombo godfather of harlem?

Joseph Colombo Sr., also known as "Joe Colombo," was an Italian-American mobster and crime boss who was considered a powerful figure in the Italian-American Mafia, specifically in the Colombo crime family. Colombo was born on June 16, 1923, in New York City and rose to prominence in the 1960s as the boss of the Colombo crime family.

Colombo gained infamy as the leader of one of New York's "Five Families" of the Mafia. He was instrumental in the rise of the Colombo crime family and was known for his ruthless tactics and willingness to use violence to maintain control over his criminal empire.

In addition to his criminal activities, Colombo was also involved in various legitimate business ventures, including real estate and construction. He used his connections in the Mafia to expand his influence and accumulate wealth.

Colombo's reign as boss of the Colombo crime family came to an end in 1971 when he was shot and severely injured during a public rally in New York City. The shooting left him paralyzed and incapacitated, and he died seven years later in May 1978.

Despite his criminal activities, Joe Colombo was also known for his philanthropic efforts within the Italian-American community, which earned him the nickname "The Godfather of Harlem." He organized events and fundraisers to promote Italian-American pride and combat stereotypes of Italian-Americans as criminals.

Overall, Joe Colombo remains a controversial figure in the history of the Mafia, known for his criminal activities as well as his efforts to promote and support his community.