Bank Robbery: Skills, Architecture, and Modern Financial Scandals

Bank robbery is often depicted in popular media as a straightforward affair involving sophisticated criminal techniques and daring escapes. However, real-life examples, such as the historic heists that came close to stealing billions, reveal a more nuanced and complex story. This article delves into the skills required for a monumental heist, the critical role of architectural training, and modern financial scandals involving banks that received government bailout funds.

Historical Insights and Expertise in Bank Robbery

One of the only bank robbers to come close to stealing a billion dollars in inflation-adjusted terms was George Leonidas Leslie, a wealthy architect who organized or participated in 80 bank robberies between 1869 and 1878. Leslie was not just a roguish criminal but a meticulous planner who built full-scale models of his targets and made his gang rehearse plans repeatedly, sometimes blindfolded to simulate the conditions of the actual heist. His success and careful planning highlight the importance of architectural training in understanding bank layouts and design.

Modern Scams: The Financial Bailout

The global financial crisis of 2008 brought about a series of massive bailouts for major financial institutions. Many of these institutions, including Wells Fargo, Citigroup, and Bank of America, received government aid to stabilize the economy. However, some individuals and groups saw this as an opportunity to exploit the financial system.

Job Opportunities and Getting In

Individuals looking to exploit the financial system can start by gaining employment at well-known companies. For instance, jobs at banks like Gilman Sacks, automotive companies like Chevrolet Chrysler or the Democratic and Republican national campaign committees, or firms like Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac can provide a foot in the door. From there, the next step is to become a part of the trillion-dollar bailout funds provided by the US Treasury Department.

Bailed Out Banks and Financial Institutions

DateFinancial InstitutionCityStateAmount 10/28/2008Wells Fargo FranciscoCalifornia25,000,000,000 10/28/2008State Street ,000,000,000 10/28/2008Bank of America Carolina15,000,000,000 10/28/2008JPMorgan Chase YorkNew York25,000,000,000 10/28/2008Citigroup YorkNew York25,000,000,000

The $200 billion invested by the US Treasury in hundreds of banks through the Capital Purchase Program aimed to prop up the banking industry during the financial crisis. While the bailout funds were intended to stabilize the economy, they also opened the door for some individuals to exploit the financial system.

Conclusion

Bank robbery, whether in the past or present, often requires a combination of expertise, strategic planning, and a deep understanding of the financial system. While architectural training has been historically significant for planning heists, the financial scandals of recent years underscore the persistent vulnerability of the banking system to exploitation. As the global financial system continues to evolve, so too will the methods and strategies of those seeking to profit from it.