Joseph Colombo was an influential figure in organized crime during the mid-20th century. Born on June 16, 1923, in New York City, he became the boss of the Colombo crime family, one of the Five Families of the American Mafia. Colombo was known for his efforts to improve the public image of the Mafia and for his involvement in various criminal activities, including extortion and racketeering. Colombo gained notoriety for his role in the Colombo Wars, a violent power struggle within the Mafia during the 1970s. His life took a dramatic turn when he was shot in 1971, which left him partially paralyzed. He died on May 22, 1978, but his legacy continues to influence discussions about organized crime in America.