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