M. R. Werner (1897–1981)

Probably one of the standard accounts of the history of the Democratic Party machine in New York City, this particular edition came out in 1928, at what could arguably be the apogee of the Tiger, since one of its own was running for President that year (Al Smith). The book notes the durability of the Hall, though within 5 years of publication, the Hall would first be in disgrace, and then eclipsed by Fiorello LaGuardia, never to really regain its dominance. By 1960, the last vestiges were show more gone. A weakness of this particular book are the lengthy quotations from reports and transcripts that really aren't necessary to get the points across, and in my view are largely padding. It's pretty good on the early history of the Hall, very detailed on the era of "Boss" Tweed (though it perpetuates the "Marcy" error), and is pretty good on the Kelly-Croker eras. Thomas Nast's illustrations are seen in many places, and not just the usual famous ones. Much of the meat of this book can be found in other sources, though it's good to see a relatively contemporary source. Recommended. show less