Synopses & Reviews
Among the monumental characters who ascended to impossible renown and influence in the history of American politics, few are more fascinating than Boss Tweed; and few working historians could record in more vivid detail his astonishing career than Kenneth D. Ackerman--an investigative historian of the first order. Ackerman's vibrant, accessible, and altogether captivating Boss Tweed is a biography of the legendary figure who bribed the state legislature, fixed elections, skimmed money from city contractors, and diverted public funds on a massive scale. During his reign at Tammany Hall and then in a variety of elected posts, including as U.S. senator, Tweed wielded almost total control over New York State and City politics, before his unparalleled zealotry and remorseless disregard for the law led to his imprisonment. Yet, as the author shows, Tweed's positive political contributions have been largely overlooked. From one of the most talented new historians to have emerged in recent years, this book presents a thrilling story of the master manipulator who tried to make all of New York the instrument of his own ruthless ambitions, and succeeded--for a time. More than sixty photos and political cartoons by Thomas Nast are featured throughout.
Synopsis
William Magear Tweed, America's most corrupt politician ever, ruled New York City in the 1860s and 1870s. He rigged the votes, bribed the legislature, and stole on a massive scale. But even in prison, people still loved and admired him. Tweed's is a stunning tale of pride, fall, and redemption.Editorial Reviews" An] excellent new biography of the Boss . . . told in a crisp, clear way."-Pete Hamill, New York Times Book Review"A pleasure to read."-Kenneth T. Jackson, Washington Post Book World" An] absorbing account of Tweed's rise and fall."-Michael Kenney, Boston Globe"Not only a compelling look at the colorful yet ruthless man who invented the big city political machine, it is also the gripping story of how dedicated newspapermen and zealous reformers brought down a notorious kingpin." -Publishers Weekly (starred review)"Skillfully tells the story of the Tammany Hall chief . . . Ackerman makes it hard not to root for the old Boss in his final days when he faces his enemies."-Jennifer Itzenson, Denver PostA thoroughgoing, rayon-smooth biography of Boss Tweed . . . A fine piece of narrative historiography for a wide public, from scholars to the lay enthusiast of New York City's political past."-Kirkus Reviews"Kenneth D. Ackerman's superbly written biography of Boss Tweed is spellbinding . . . every bit as commanding as the man himself." -Ed Koch, former mayor of New York City"Engrossing and eye-opening . . ."-New York Post