Boss Tweed

Date of Birth: April 3, 1823

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: April 12, 1878

Biography

William Magear Tweed, commonly known as “Boss Tweed,” was an American politician most notable for being the “boss” of Tammany Hall, the Democratic Party political machine that played a major role in the politics of 19th-century New York City and State. Tweed was born and raised in New York City and started his career as a bookkeeper before moving into politics. He served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, the New York City Board of Supervisors, and the New York State Senate. Tweed was known for his corrupt leadership and the embezzlement of millions of dollars from the city, which led to his downfall and imprisonment. Despite his notoriety, he was also known for his contributions to public works and social services.

5 Interesting Facts about Boss Tweed

1. Boss Tweed was one of the principal architects of the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge.

2. He was arrested in 1871 and convicted for stealing an estimated $25 to $45 million from New York City taxpayers.

3. Tweed was once the third-largest landowner in New York City.

4. He escaped from jail in 1875 and fled to Spain, but was recaptured and returned to the United States.

5. He died in the Ludlow Street Jail while serving a sentence for his crimes.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Boss Tweed

1. “The way to have power is to take it.”

2. “I don’t care who does the electing, so long as I get to do the nominating.”

3. “I have been swindled and robbed by experts. Experts, I tell you!”

4. “As long as I count the votes, what are you going to do about it?”

5. “I don’t care much for politics. I just want to make sure the right people are put in office.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Boss Tweed’s net worth was estimated to be around $12 million, which would be equivalent to hundreds of millions in today’s dollars considering inflation.

Children

Boss Tweed had seven children with his wife, Jane Skaden Tweed. Their names were William Magear Tweed Jr., George Washington Tweed, Richard Tweed, Mary Jane Tweed, Josephine Tweed, Elizabeth Tweed, and Helen Tweed.