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