Las Vegas was initially just a dusty desert town inhabited by 800 people, which over time attracted the attention of the whole world and became known as the ‘Sin City‘, a center of gambling and entertainment. This transformation began when the state of Nevada legalized gambling in 1931.
State of Nevada Officially Legalized Gambling in 1931
During the construction of the Hoover Dam in Boulder City, workers flocked to Las Vegas on weekends for entertainment. This 40-kilometer journey became an escape for them. Each arriving worker increased the city’s tax revenues and contributed to its growth.
Eyes Turned to Las Vegas After the Gambling Ban in Los Angeles
The ban on gambling in Los Angeles changed the game and turned eyes towards Las Vegas. Gambling enthusiasts started flocking to this town to try their luck. Police officer Guy McAfee’s arrival in Vegas in 1941 and starting a casino significantly affected the city’s fate. McAfee’s casino attracted customers from all over the country and began to brighten the city’s star.
Mafia Leader Benjamin Bugsy Siegel was a Turning Point in the History of Las Vegas
One of the significant turning points in the history of Las Vegas was mafia leader Benjamin Bugsy Siegel. Siegel led the gambling industry in the city with major investments until his death. However, after his death, mafia groups continued their activities in Vegas using different methods. They tried to intimidate newly opened businesses with methods like extortion and threats, demanding significant amounts of money under the guise of ‘protection money’.
In the 1950s, Las Vegas Emerged as a Center for Gambling and Shows
In the 1950s, Vegas began to be known for both its casinos and entertainment and shows. The event that led to Las Vegas being called ‘Sin City’ in 1957 was the addition of nude women to the entertainment menu at The Dunes establishment.
After the 1960s, Las Vegas further developed its gambling identity, attracting attention with various entertainment venues and investment opportunities. Today, Las Vegas has become a preferred destination on a broader scale, with entertainment and holiday venues.
This fascinating transformation has made Las Vegas not only one of America’s but also one of the world’s major entertainment centers.
Source: Britannica, CBS