This episode of Mob Talk takes a closer look at some stories from the book Last Don Standing: The Secret Life of Mob Boss Ralph Natale written by the former Philadelphia mafia boss.
Mafia experts George Anastasia and Dave Schratwieser share some information about a couple of different stories told by Ralph Natale one being a behind closed door sit down between high-ranking mobsters including Angelo Bruno and Russell Bufalino. There is some great footage of Natale telling these stories to what is believed to be his book agent is included. There is another very interesting account by Natale of his plans to openly carry out a hit in a public place that was foiled. Anastasia breaks down some of these stories and gives us his opinions on whether or not these are entirely accurate.
There has been plenty of debate over whether or not the former Cosa Nostra boss had embellished on many aspects of his book. Ralph covers a wide range of topics from his life in organized crime including his time as boss of the Philly mafia and Joey Merlino. There seems to be plenty of reasons to be skeptical about some of the stuff Natale says and many believe these stories have to be taken with a grain of salt. But the Last Don Standing: The Secret Life of Mob Boss Ralph Natale is still an interesting and even entertaining read for those with an interest in mafia books and information.
Okay let’s give Ralph some credit here he is a pretty good story teller even if we can only believe a very small part of what he is saying lol. I think even though well embellished some of those stories and things he says in the book are interesting and they seem to at least be based off of some truths. Just seems like Ralph always wanted to be a more important part of the Philly mafia esp later in his career than he was and this was his way of bending that reality a bit.
Yea he definitely doesn’t let the truth get in the way of a good story. I figure he always badly wanted to be a Made guy but was always in prison or who knows why else. I guess it took the whole wartime atmosphere for him to be inducted into the family and even then only to be a disposable Front Boss. I’m sure deep in his heart he knows this also and that would explain the overcompensating in all regards. Like you say there is probably grains of truth to most of the tales but this is basically the only way for him to get that notoriety he seems to want so badly. Its a tad pathetic though and he has got to know that.
Fair enough though. I guess he was a legit tough guy and did some heavy time in the joint. The funny thing is that type of over the top story telling and embellishing is actually much more of an Irish tradition. They are notorious bullshitters but always for the sake of having a good time and entertainment. Not in a malicious way. I’ll probably still read the book eventually just for history and stories even if they’re only half true haha.
I think some may be barely half true lol I may end up reading it as well although but def more for its probable entertainment value than its historical accuracy.
Ralph is Legend in his own omind…Yes Ralph whacked a bartending union leader…back in Angelo Bruno era…So Ralph was capable…and he worked for Angelo B…..that was true but he was always bragging and embellishing stories…He was Skinny joey.s Pawn..and puppet..then turned rat…so any respect he earned during Angelo B. Days has been long erased by his turning Rat for feds….
I’ve heard/read snippets of this Book with ppl in the know saying Natale has embellished many stories. Now,even though those mentioned/lied about in Book can’t /won’t sue,why does Publisher allow “lies” to be told? Maybe b/c he was called The Boss?
It sells I guess is the easy answer any many of these stories have little proof at least concrete proof that makes them outright lies etc. So my guess would be as long as a publisher doesn’t think lawsuits are possible they will make the profits and let readers debate the accuracy. sadly more often than not people buy the book because so many people are calling it BS.
Just too hard to take this guy seriously at all anymore!