When I sell liquor, it’s called bootlegging; when my patrons serve it on Lake Shore Drive, it’s called hospitality.
Meaning of the quote
The quote is explaining how the same action can be viewed differently depending on who is doing it. When Al Capone, a criminal, sells alcohol, it's considered illegal or "bootlegging". But when his wealthy customers serve that same alcohol to their guests, it's seen as "hospitality" and acceptable behavior. The quote highlights the double standard where the rich and powerful can get away with things that are considered crimes for regular people.
About Al Capone
Al Capone was a notorious American gangster and businessman who rose to power during the Prohibition era in Chicago. He built a criminal empire through bootlegging and other illegal activities, and his reign as a crime boss ended when he was convicted of tax evasion and sent to prison at the age of 33.
More quotes from Al Capone
Prohibition has made nothing but trouble.
American gangster (1899-1947)
Capitalism is the legitimate racket of the ruling class.
American gangster (1899-1947)
This American system of ours, call it Americanism, call it capitalism, call it what you will, gives each and every one of us a great opportunity if we only seize it with both hands and make the most of it.
American gangster (1899-1947)
When I sell liquor, it’s called bootlegging; when my patrons serve it on Lake Shore Drive, it’s called hospitality.
American gangster (1899-1947)
Now I know why tigers eat their young.
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I have built my organization upon fear.
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I don’t even know what street Canada is on.
American gangster (1899-1947)
My rackets are run on strictly American lines and they’re going to stay that way.
American gangster (1899-1947)
Vote early and vote often.
American gangster (1899-1947)
I am like any other man. All I do is supply a demand.
American gangster (1899-1947)
You can get much farther with a kind word and a gun than you can with a kind word alone.
American gangster (1899-1947)