Plunkitt of Tammany Hall

PLUNKITT OF TAMMANY HALL By William L. Riordon A series of recorded conversations and monologues from George Washington Plunkitt, a New York City political figure and Tammany Hall leader in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Riordon, a newspaper reporter, captured Plunkitt's frank discussions about political machinery, patronage, and power from the politician's regular spot at the New York County Courthouse bootblack stand. The book presents Plunkitt's views on political success, his methods for maintaining voter loyalty, and his distinction between "honest graft" and "dishonest graft." His observations cover practical politics, the spoils system, immigration, election practices, and the day-to-day operations of Tammany Hall's political organization. Through Plunkitt's candid commentary and unvarnished explanations, the text illuminates the inner workings of urban machine politics during the Gilded Age and Progressive Era. This primary source remains relevant to modern discussions about political reform, corruption, and the nature of American democracy.

Readers value this book as a frank, first-hand account of machine politics and corruption in New York City. Many appreciate Plunkitt's unvarnished honesty about his methods and the clear window into Gilded Age political machines. Readers highlight: - Simple, clear writing style - Humor and memorable quotes - Short length makes it accessible - Historical insights into urban politics - Relevance to modern political practices Common criticisms: - Repetitive content - Shallow analysis of deeper issues - Plunkitt's self-serving perspective - Dated references require context Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (430+ ratings) Sample reader comment: "Amazing how little has changed in 100 years. Plunkitt's descriptions of 'honest graft' could be ripped from today's headlines." - Amazon reviewer Another notes: "The book needs more background information to fully understand the historical context." - Goodreads reviewer

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🗣️ George Washington Plunkitt delivered his famous political observations from his "office" - a shoeshine stand in the New York County Courthouse. 📚 The book consists entirely of Plunkitt's monologues, which were transcribed by reporter William L. Riordon over several years of informal conversations. 💰 Plunkitt coined the term "honest graft" to describe how he made his fortune by buying land where he knew public projects would soon be built, distinguishing it from "dishonest graft" which he claimed to despise. 🏛️ When Tammany Hall was at its peak of power, it controlled nearly all political appointments in Manhattan and had more power than the mayor of New York City. ✍️ Though published in 1905, the book remains required reading in many political science courses today, as its insights into political machines and urban politics are still considered relevant.