William Hale Thompson

William Hale Thompson was an American politician who served as the Mayor of Chicago from 1915 to 1923 and again from 1927 to 1931. Known for his flamboyant style and populist approach, he often challenged political norms, promoting business interests and opposed reforms aimed at reducing corruption. His tenure was marked by efforts to modernize the city, but also by scandal and controversy. Thompson was a colorful figure in Chicago politics, blending radical ideas with a knack for public spectacle, and remains a notable example of early 20th-century urban political culture.