History Channel "Numbers Racket"

VOLTITAN · Dec 29, 2003

The Numbers Racket

Monday, December 29 @ 9pm ET/PT

For centuries, the government promoted the same game they spent decades condemning. The saga of the numbers racket unwinds from the rebellious founding fathers onto the bloody back alleys of Depression-era Harlem. The battle over who booked the bets, made the profit, and paid the dreamers was fought throughout the 20th century. Featuring interviews with politicians, lottery commissioners, addicted players, and illegal operators, who detail their roles in this world of vice for profit. TV PG

Fishhead · Dec 29, 2003

WOW!

COOL!

drunkguy · Dec 29, 2003

sounds good, but wish I knew about it earlier. Will have to search through TiVo to see when it's on again

Fishhead · Dec 29, 2003

Good show thus far.

I recommend those not watching it, to tune it in.

wilheim · Dec 29, 2003

I'm watching, did'nt know they built Harvard with lottery money.

wil.

drunkguy · Dec 29, 2003

It's on again at 1AM tonight. Can't find it replaying anytime in the future, so set your VCR.

wilheim · Dec 29, 2003

They made a movie about Bumpby Johnson, and Madam Queen, starring Lawrence Fishburne, called "Hoodlum".

wil.

scott · Dec 29, 2003

Mentioning the Numbers brings back a few memories: dream books, looking in the papers for the winning 'numbers', disputes over turf (Youngstown vs Pittsgurgh). They would payoff on the races or stock market. I never had to worry, never hit. The State got into the business but the geniuses who ran it payed less than the locals 500/1 vs 600/1 so the locals weren't bothered that much. Thats 35 yrs ago so I don't know what they do now if anything.....ScottyS