When your profession or hobby is politics, you have a tendancy to read the Art Of War. Another must read is Plunkitt of Tammany Hall. What is Tammany Hall? you ask. Tammany Hall was the powerhouse political team that controlled New York in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s.
Who was George Washington Plunkitt? you ask. He rose from humble beginnings to become ward boss of the Fifteenth Assembly District in New York, he was a key player in the powerhouse political team and, not incidentally a millionaire.
The book Plunkitt of Tammany Hall is a collection of utterly frank talks given at his headquarters at Graziano’s bootblack stand outside the New York County Court House, Plunkitt revealed to a sharp and sympathetic reporter named William L. Riordan the secrets of political success as practiced and perfected by him and fellow Tammany Hall titans.
Plunkitt’s Thoughts and Beliefs
Plunkitt was opposed to the Civil Service examination and hiring process. He believed that there were no benefits for individuals to be involved within the political machine if the machine did not have jobs or positions to dole out.
Plunkitt believed that there was a difference between the “reformers” and politicians. Reformers are one or two termer’s, because reformer’s “do not answer to the gong every time as a true politician will.”
Plunkitt believed that dishonest politicians were the lowest of the low. “Understand, I ain’t defendin’ politicians of today who steal. The politician who steals is worse than a thief. He is a fool. With the grand opportunities all around for the man with a political pull, there’s no excuse for stealin’ a cent.”
Plunkitt stated that Tammany Leaders were NOT bookworms. Education was not necessary and would be a hindrance in the Tammany movement. Plunkitt believed that if a young man went to school “that he would have to unlearn all his learning.” Plunkitt proudly proclaimed that he attended school three winters.
Plunkitt believed and I would concur with this. Politicians should not drink “adult beverages” in the public while serving as political servant. It was Plunkitt’s belief that some one that relies on “adult beverages” lacks good judgement.
This book is a 98 page book with a 22 page introduction written by Peter Quinn. This edition was printed in 1995. You can locate a good and economically used copy via Amazon. I would encourage anyone with any interest in politics to read these collection of speeches.
