Ep 1. American Gangster

In Gangland season 1, episode 1, titled "American Gangster," viewers are taken on a journey through the rise of African American drug kingpin Frank Lucas. Born and raised in North Carolina, Lucas made a name for himself in the Harlem drug trade in the 1960s and 70s. Lucas is infamous for allegedly smuggling heroin into the United States via the coffins of dead American soldiers during the Vietnam War.

The episode begins with an overview of Lucas' early life, including his relationship with his boss, notorious Harlem gangster Ellsworth "Bumpy" Johnson. When Johnson passed away in 1968, Lucas saw an opportunity to take over the drug trade in Harlem. Using his connections in Southeast Asia, Lucas was able to secure a steady supply of pure heroin, which he sold at a lower price than his competitors. This led to him building a vast empire, with drug dealers from New York to New Jersey working under him.

The episode explores the day-to-day workings of Lucas' organization, from the brutal enforcement he used to prevent rival gangs from encroaching on his territory, to his decision to remove any intermediaries in the drug trade, effectively cutting out the Italian mafia who had traditionally controlled the market.

Viewers also hear from law enforcement officials who pursued Lucas, including retired DEA agent Jack Toal. Toal explains how Lucas' arrest was only made possible by the dogged efforts of law enforcement, who were determined to bring him to justice.

A key part of the episode focuses on Lucas' downfall. It's revealed that Lucas' organization began to crumble when he was sent to prison on drug charges. With Lucas behind bars, his once-loyal subordinates quickly turned on each other, leading to a wave of violence and in-fighting. Lucas himself was eventually released from prison after agreeing to testify against several of his former associates.

Throughout the episode, viewers are given a glimpse into the life of an African American gangster in 1960s and 70s Harlem. The episode explores the racism and prejudice that Lucas faced throughout his life, including his resentment towards the Italian mafia who controlled the drug trade before him. It also highlights the complex relationship between African American gangsters and law enforcement, as both pursued their own agendas while trying to stay one step ahead of the other.

Overall, "American Gangster" is a gripping and informative episode that provides an in-depth look into the life and crimes of Frank Lucas. Viewers will be fascinated by the stories of Lucas' rise and fall, as well as the people who pursued him. For anyone interested in the history of the American drug trade and the men who ruled over it, this is a must-watch episode.