Do you know the man behind El Chapo's rise?

Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán, one of the most notorious drug lords in modern history, rose to prominence in the world of drug trafficking with the assistance of various individuals and criminal networks. Among those who played a significant role in El Chapo's ascent was Félix Gallardo.

Miguel Ángel Félix Gallardo, also known as "El Padrino" (The Godfather), was a powerful Mexican drug lord and the founder of the Guadalajara Cartel. In the 1970s and 1980s, Félix Gallardo was a key figure in the Mexican drug trade and had significant influence over drug trafficking routes and operations.

1. Miguel Ángel Félix Gallardo played a significant role in Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán's rise in the drug trafficking world by providing guidance, opportunities, and connections. Here are some key details about Félix Gallardo's involvement:
2. Formation of the Guadalajara Cartel: Félix Gallardo was a founding member of the Guadalajara Cartel, which emerged in the late 1970s and operated in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. This cartel would become a dominant force in the Mexican drug trade.
3. Mentoring El Chapo: Félix Gallardo recognized El Chapo's potential and took him under his wing, becoming his mentor. He provided guidance and knowledge about the drug trade, teaching El Chapo the intricacies of smuggling operations and the importance of alliances and connections.
4. Expanding Smuggling Routes: Félix Gallardo used his influence and established connections to expand the Guadalajara Cartel's smuggling routes into the United States. This involved coordinating transportation networks, bribing officials, and securing safe passage for drug shipments.
5. El Chapo's Growing Role: Over time, El Chapo's role within the Guadalajara Cartel grew, thanks in part to Félix Gallardo's support. El Chapo became involved in organizing and overseeing drug trafficking operations, including the transportation of drugs across the Mexico-U.S. border.
6. Split and Rise of the Sinaloa Cartel: Following the arrest of Félix Gallardo in 1989, the Guadalajara Cartel fragmented, leading to the rise of new cartels, including the powerful Sinaloa Cartel led by El Chapo. El Chapo utilized the knowledge and connections gained during his time under Félix Gallardo to build his own criminal empire.
7. Establishing Connections: Félix Gallardo had extensive connections within the Mexican government, law enforcement, and the military. He utilized these connections to protect the Guadalajara Cartel's operations and secure favorable treatment from authorities. This network of influence likely benefited El Chapo as he navigated the drug trade.
8. Sharing Network and Infrastructure: Félix Gallardo's established infrastructure, including transportation networks, distribution channels, and smuggling routes, provided a foundation for El Chapo to build upon. El Chapo inherited and expanded upon these resources, allowing for the rapid growth of his own organization.
9. Strategic Partnerships: Félix Gallardo facilitated strategic alliances with other drug trafficking organizations, both within Mexico and internationally. These partnerships not only allowed for the exchange of drugs but also provided protection and leverage in the competitive drug trade. El Chapo likely benefited from these existing alliances and established new ones as his influence grew.
10. Transfer of Territories: After Félix Gallardo's arrest, the Guadalajara Cartel's territories were redistributed among different factions, with El Chapo assuming control over a significant portion of the cartel's operations. This transfer of power further contributed to El Chapo's rise and solidified his position as a key player in the drug trade.
11. Building an Independent Powerbase: While Félix Gallardo played a crucial role in El Chapo's early career, it is important to note that El Chapo's rise was not solely reliant on Félix Gallardo's support. El Chapo demonstrated resourcefulness, strategic thinking, and leadership abilities that allowed him to build his own independent powerbase within the Sinaloa Cartel.

It's worth noting that the exact extent of Félix Gallardo's direct involvement in El Chapo's rise can vary in different accounts and sources. The dynamics of drug cartels are often complex and secretive, making it challenging to establish precise details about individuals' roles and contributions. Nonetheless, Félix Gallardo's mentorship and influence were instrumental in shaping El Chapo's trajectory within the drug trafficking world.

While it is true that understanding the history and impact of drug lords can have educational value from a historical, sociological, or criminological perspective, discussing specific drug lords and their activities can often glamorize or sensationalize illegal and harmful behavior. It is important to approach such topics responsibly and with consideration for the potential negative consequences associated with drug trafficking, violence, addiction, and the impact on communities.