1920s: Al Capone runs a murderous gang in Chicago, trafficking in alcohol and illegal gambling houses.

Today: Organized crime is still widespread, but it is also more diffuse and less concentrated in particular cities. Authorities believe they have largely destroyed the "Mafia" when they put New York City crime boss John Gotti behind bars for life in 1992.

1920s: The life expectancy for American males is 53.6 years and for females 54.6 years.

Today: The life expectancy for American males is 73.1 years and for females 79.1 years.

1920s: A crime wave sweeps the United States, as Prohibition helps spawn the bootlegging industry and increases in prostitution and gambling activities.

Today: Alcohol is legally sold throughout the United States, and legal gambling, in the form of state lotteries and casinos, is widespread.