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Often times when you look at slot machines in the
United States, it seems like the slot machines have just been a part of
life—many don’t know when the slot machines were originally brought into the
state, nor who decided the slot machines were a great idea. That is not the
case in New Orleans—those citizens recognize Diamond Jim Moran, and his
contribution to the proliferation of slot machines in New Orleans, even if
they were illegal at the time. Slot machines
spread throughout the world.
For those not familiar with Diamond Jim, (or Jimmy Brocata, either alias
works, it still him) Diamond Jim was involved in a lot of different
areas—both legal and illegal. In addition to his restaurant, La Louisiane
Restaurant located in New Orleans’ French Quarter, Diamond Jim was one of
the first to bring in the slot machines. He also was a known associate of
celebrities and mobsters alike. According to the say the story goes, Diamond
Jim worked to bring in the illegal slot machines by the request of Charles
Luciano. Slot machines spread throughout the
world.
Part of the draw of the slot machines was the ease at which the slot
machines could be hidden from the authorities. Though the police claim to
have tried to eliminate the slot machines, as the slot machines increased in
New Orleans so did the amount of gambling addictions. The slot machines were
a hit and the citizens loved them—of particular popularity at the time were
the Indian Chief slot machines. Slot machines
spread throughout the world.
As the slot machines grew in popularity though, some thought they were
causing to many societal ills to continue without police action. The church
continual addressed their concern with the police departments but from what
is known of that time period, the police encouraged slot machines.
Around the time that Diamond Jim passed away, many were still debating what
the exact effect of slot machines were on the city. Did the slot machines
take money from the poor? In some cases absolutely. But others will only
speak kindly of Diamond Jim and his efforts to help the poor during the
Great Depression.
Slot machines spread throughout the world.
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