The New York Mafia refers to organized crime groups that have operated in New York City, primarily associated with Italian-American families. These groups, such as the Gambino, Genovese, Lucchese, Bonanno, and Colombo families, have been involved in various illegal activities, including extortion, racketeering, and drug trafficking. Historically, the Mafia gained significant power during the early to mid-20th century, particularly during the Prohibition era when illegal alcohol trade flourished. Law enforcement efforts, including the establishment of the RICO Act in the 1970s, aimed to dismantle these organizations, leading to numerous arrests and convictions of high-ranking members.