Dark History of Las Vegas

Introduction

• Host: Bailey Sarian.
• Theme: Dark history, not boring, sometimes tragic or chic.
• Episode: History of Las Vegas.

Bachelorette Party in Las Vegas

• Expectation: Wild, expensive weekend.
• Common Activities: Shots, shows, expensive dinners, and no sleep.

Survival of Las Vegas

• Challenges faced: Mob activity, recession, inflation.
• Reason for Investigation: Survives despite challenges.

Early 1900s

• Religious America: Gambling and drinking illegal in most parts.
• Vegas' Identity: Thrived on activities frowned upon elsewhere.

Legalization of Gambling

• Year: 1931.
• Reason: State needed financial solutions during the Great Depression.
• Unique Move: No other state legalized gambling at the time.

Vegas and Controversial Activities

• Divorce: Easier and quicker in Las Vegas than other states.
• Hoover Dam: Brought influx of workers and foot traffic.

Fremont Street

• Key Features: Paved road, first hotel (Hotel Nevada).
• Attractions: Entertainment for dam workers, gambling, and nightlife.

Introduction of Neon Lights

• Year: 1936.
• Impact: Attractive lights, dubbed "Glitter Gulch."
• Significance: Technological advancement and tourist attraction.

Mob Influence

• Key Figure: Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegel.
• Project: The Flamingo hotel and casino.
• Outcome: Initial failure led to Siegel's death; later success under new management.

Growth of Tourism and Entertainment

• 1940s: Rise of mob-run casinos and increased tourism.
• Entertainment Developments: Showgirls, singers, comedians.
• Golden Age: Appeal to people post-World War II.

Transition to Corporate Control

• 1969: Corporate Gaming Act.
• Impact: Casinos bought by famous billionaires.
• Changes: Neon lights replaced, crackdown on mob activities.

Decline in the 1970s

• Reputation: Crime-ridden, falling apart.
• Celebrity Appeal Declines: Big stars avoided performing there.

Elvis Presley's Influence

• Comeback: 1970, performed at the International Hotel.
• Impact: Revived Las Vegas entertainment scene.

The 1990s - Family-Friendly Era

• Rebranding Attempt: Target families, theme hotels.
• Outcome: Mixed reactions; leading to another rebrand.

"What Happens Here, Stays Here" Era

• Focus Shift: Adults, entertainment, celebrity chefs.
• New Age: Celebrity chefs introduced, fine dining.

2008 Recession Impact

• Effect: Hit on casino business, high foreclosure rates.
• Recovery: Shift focus from gambling to entertainment and food.

2013 - Modern Resurgence with Britney Spears

• Residency: Britney Spears' "Piece of Me" show.
• Success: Huge turnout, inspired other artists.

Current and Future Developments

• Post-COVID: Shift away from gambling.
• Sports Focus: New stadium plans (e.g., Major League Baseball).
• Ongoing Evolution: Continual adaptation to remain relevant.

Conclusion

• Las Vegas' Resilience: Ability to adapt and survive multiple crises.
• Cultural Significance: From mob-era to modern entertainment hub.

Future Episodes & Engagement

• Upcoming Topic: Dark history of pranks.
• Engagement: Encouraged audience to comment and suggest future episode topics.