Understanding Trust in the Godfather Part II: Vito Corleone and Hyman Roth

In the 1974 film The Godfather Part II, Frankie Pentangeli's assertion that Vito Corleone never trusted Hyman Roth is a complex issue that reveals deep-seated tensions within the criminal underworld. This assertion reflects the mistrust and vigilance that shrewd leaders like Vito Corleone must maintain in the treacherous world of organized crime. To fully comprehend this, we need to delve into the dynamics of trust and distrust, as well as the underlying motivations of each character involved.

Trust and Mistrust in the Mafia

Vito Corleone, a master strategist and astute leader, would have been acutely aware of the treacherous nature of the criminal underworld. While Hyman Roth, a prominent figure in the New York Crime Syndicate, did not directly betray Vito or align with his enemies during the time depicted in the film, the culture of mistrust within organized crime families would have made Vito remain highly cautious and wary of potential threats. The cardinal rule in Mafia circles—to keep your friends close but your enemies closer—stressed the importance of constant vigilance.

Pentangeli’s Motivations and Assertions

Frankie Pentangeli's assertion appears to serve his own agenda within the narrative. Feeling abandoned and vulnerable, he may be attempting to rationalize his actions and justify his decisions by questioning the trustworthiness of others, particularly those associated with Michael Corleone. Although Roth had not betrayed Vito, his influence and potential future actions could be seen as a threat by someone like Pentangeli, who was desperate for Michael's permission to deal with Roth's influence on the Rosato brothers. Michael's refusal was likely a strategic move to win Roth's trust, which ignorance to Frankie led him to interpret as weakness.

Vito's Philosophy and Tactics

Vito's approach to trust was rooted in a deep skepticism of human nature. He understood that people would follow their perceived self-interests, and his strategy was to align those interests with his own, without ever fully trusting that any individual would act purely in his favor. This philosophy is evident in his dealings and alliances, where he pragmatic rather than trusting absolute loyalty.

Frankie’s Disappointment and Deception

Frankie had a significant grudge against Roth, as he controlled the Rosato brothers, who were encroaching on Frankie's territory. Michael’s refusal to authorize an attack on the Rosato brothers was a strategic move to win Roth's trust. However, Frankie was completely unaware of this and believed that Michael was merely being merciful or soft. This misunderstanding led him to believe that Vito’s trust in Roth was misplaced and that Roth was a threat that needed to be dealt with.

Frankie's perspective was colored by his desire for vengeance and his own vendetta against Roth. His belief that Roth was a dangerous ally and that Vito was being naive in trusting him reflects the deep-seated mistrust that often prevails within the criminal underworld. His actions and decisions were driven by a desire to ensure his own survival and the safety of his family, rather than blind loyalty.

Conclusion

The assertion by Frankie Pentangeli that Vito never trusted Hyman Roth highlights the complex and often misunderstood dynamics of trust within the criminal underworld depicted in The Godfather Part II. It underscores Vito's shrewd and cautious approach to leadership, reflecting the mistrust and vigilance required to survive in a world where loyalty is often fleeting and betrayal is ever present.