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The Boss, and How He Came to Rule New York

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About This Book

A first-person memoir traces the ascent of a local political boss, charting his immersion in machine politics and the tactics—patronage, vote manipulation, intimidation, bargains, and occasional violence—used to build and sustain influence. Chapters follow episodes with figures like Big Kennedy and Sheeny Joe, municipal contests, factional intrigue, legal maneuvers, and the administration of favors that bind clients to power. The narrative balances episodes of personal ambition and party strategy with reflection on the machine’s social services, reciprocal obligations, moral compromises, and the cycles of succession, profit, and loss that accompany rule by spoils.

About the Author

Lewis, Alfred Henry portrait

Alfred Henry Lewis

Alfred Henry Lewis was an American author and journalist known for his vivid storytelling and engaging narratives. He gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributing significantly to the genre of Western fiction. His notable works include "Faro Nell and Her Friends: Wolfville Stories," which showcases his talent for character-driven tales set in the American West. Lewis's writing often reflects his keen observations of society and politics, as seen in works like "The Boss, and How He Came to Rule New York." Through his diverse range of stories, he captured the spirit of his time and left a lasting impact on American literature.

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