Boss Tweed: The Corrupt Pol Who Conceived the Soul of Modern New York

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 Post A 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