When educating students on the history of organized crime in the United States, instructors often focus on figures like Al Capone, Lucky Luciano, and Pablo Escobar. While these individuals certainly played pivotal roles in the criminal underworld, there are many lesser-known characters like Frank Matthews that deserve attention as well. In this article, we will explore ways to teach students about Frank Matthews, an elusive and successful drug kingpin hailing from the 1960s and 1970s, who managed to evade capture and disappear without a trace.
Background Information
Begin by providing students with background information on Frank Matthews. Born in Durham, North Carolina in 1944, Matthews moved to New York City in his early twenties. He quickly rose through the ranks of crime to create a vast drug empire stretching from New York to eleven other states. He is known for revolutionizing the heroin trade by cutting out Italian Mafia middlemen and dealing directly with international suppliers.
Understanding the Context
To help your students fully grasp the significance of Matthews’ story, provide them with an understanding of the broader socio-political context in which he operated. Discussing the Civil Rights movement, rise of heroin addiction during the 1960s and 1970s, and how law enforcement agencies approached organized crime at that time will enable them to appreciate his impact on both local communities and national drug distribution networks.
Analyzing His Effect on Society
Ask students to consider the effects of Frank Matthews’ operations on society. Did his actions contribute to drug addiction among vulnerable populations? Were there any positive effects such as employment opportunities or increased economic activity due to his illicit trade? Encourage debates and discussions on these topics to help students develop their critical thinking skills.
Comparing Frank Matthews to Other Crime Figures
Challenge your students to consider what makes Frank Matthews distinct from other notorious crime figures in American history. Encourage them to compare and contrast his rise to power, method of operation, and ultimate downfall (or lack thereof) with other significant crime bosses. This will demonstrate the unique characteristics that have led many to consider Frank Matthews one of the most successful and elusive drug kingpins in history.
Incorporating Multimedia Resources
To make lessons more engaging, incorporate multimedia resources such as documentaries, podcast episodes, and newspaper articles detailing Frank Matthews’ life and activities. Students will be able to compare historical portrayals with contemporary reinterpretations of his story.
Conclusion
Teaching students about lesser-known crime figures like Frank Matthews not only provides a broader understanding of organized crime history but also encourages critical thinking and meaningful discussion. By examining the roles these individuals played in society, students can gain valuable insights into the complex nature of criminal activity and its impact on communities.
