Boss Tweed

William M. "Boss" Tweed was a powerful political leader in New York City during the late 19th century. He led Tammany Hall, the city's Democratic political machine, which controlled local government and public services. Tweed used his influence to gain personal wealth and political power, often through corruption, bribery, and fraud. His control allowed him to shape city policies and benefit from lucrative contracts. Despite his contributions to city development, his unethical practices led to widespread public outrage, and he was eventually convicted of political corruption. Tweed's legacy highlights the complex interplay of political power and corruption in American urban history.