From 1905 to the crash of 1929, Sam Shubert (1874-1905) and his brothers
Lee (1874-1953) and J. J. (1878-1963), despite poor beginnings and
near-illiteracy, created a theater monopoly unrivaled in history. Their
ruthless business tactics and showmanship made 42nd Street the heart of
American popular theater and won them the most sought-after stars of the
day, including Al Jolson, Carmen Miranda, Eddie Cantor, Fanny Brice, Mae
West, and Fred Astaire.