Did the Corleone Family Ever Try to Negotiate a Truce with McCluskey?

The Godfather, known for its intricate plot involving family patriarch Vito Corleone and his sons, offers a wealth of information that is both factual and nuanced. One of the most fascinating aspects of the story is the Corleone family's interactions with various characters. Among these, one character that often sparks debate is McCluskey. Many wonder if, at any point, the Corleone family tried to negotiate a truce with McCluskey.

McCluskey: More Than Just a Bodyguard

In the realm of The Godfather, McCluskey was more than just a bodyguard for Sollozzo. He was a corrupt police officer who, much like Sollozzo, answered to the highest bidder. According to the lore, Sollozzo was willing to pay McCluskey a hefty sum—specifically, $10,000—for his services. If Sollozzo's illegal activities had prospered, it's likely that this sum would have increased over time. This alone makes it clear that McCluskey was not a man to be trusted.

Furthermore, McCluskey's actions prior to Vito's hospitalization further demonstrate his lack of integrity. He had arrested Sollozzo's men, including Tessio and Clemenza's subordinates, who were surveilling Vito. This move was designed to ensure that Sollozzo's plans to kill Vito could be carried out smoothly. Given this behavior, it is evident that McCluskey was not a figure to be approached for a truce or negotiation.

Michael's Direct Action

The story reveals that the Corleone family took a more direct and decisive approach when faced with such figures. Instead of seeking a truce, Michael Corleone, the youngest son and future patriarch, took matters into his own hands. He shot McCluskey dead at Louie's in the Bronx, effectively removing him as a threat. This action aligns with the Corleone philosophy of settling their own affairs and dealing with their enemies directly.

Lessons from the Puzo Novel

The writings of Mario Puzo, which form the foundation of The Godfather, have little to say about a meeting between the Corleone family and McCluskey. In the novel, Sonny and Tom discuss McCluskey as a corrupt police officer, noting that he had taken money in the past from the Corleones themselves. However, it is clear that McCluskey was a man who would betray his own benefactors for a better deal. The fact that Sollozzo had already paid him $10,000 for his silence and loyalty underscores this point.

Additionally, McCluskey's wrath when Michael and Enzo were at the hospital, having been under his control, reveals his complete disregard for loyalty and honor. He was so furious that he threatened to return the money to Sollozzo, as it was earmarked for his grandchildren's future. This action made him an unsuitable candidate for a truce or any kind of negotiation. His priorities were his personal gain and immediate threats, not the long-term interests of the mafia or any other party.

Conclusion

In the complex world of The Godfather, the Corleone family had little reason to seek a truce with McCluskey. His corruption, willingness to betray those who paid him, and lack of interest in the mafia's internal conflicts all made him a figure to be eliminated rather than a negotiating partner. The direct actions taken by Michael and the family's approach to conflict demonstrate their inclination towards decisive and effective methods of dealing with their enemies.