There is a convenient gap between America and Italy- most often it's language and stereotypes. Italy has been a proving grounds for strategy and policy since the end of WWII. I believe it was Casey who said that everything they (CIA) did successfully in South America was first tested in Italy. Sadly, a lot of Italian lives got in the way.

Today Italy is even more important in long-term American military strategy. The Sicilian base in Sigonella is the major military base in Europe now in terms of traffic and spending. And this build-up has been going on since the 70's. That is foresight- and collusion with local power brokers.

So it's no small wonder that the Sicilian mafia has a role that far exceeds its shores.