They Don’t Call it the “Big Easy” for Nothing…
Federal agent, Izzy Einstein, renowned for his undercover operations, tested the ease of obtaining alcohol in various cities. It is noted that he and his partner, Moe Smith, used more than 100 disguises and multiple languages to infiltrate illegal drinking establishments across the nation.
New Orleans presented itself as a big prize, having the reputation of being one of the “wettest” cities in America. In 1923, upon arriving in New Orleans, he put this reputation to the test. He hailed a taxi and inquired of the driver where he might “quench his thirst”. To his surprise, the taxi driver promptly produced a bottle from beneath his seat and offered Einstein a drink.
This swift acquisition was the fastest Einstein experienced nationwide...
...35 seconds.
