Boss Tweed video cover

BOSS TWEED: The Most Dangerous Politician You Never Learned About7,713 views Dec 9, 2025 (One of the very first, very CORRUPT DEMOCRATS)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2-W4yx3S9ABoss Tweed ran one of the most powerful and corrupt political machines in American history. As the head of Tammany Hall, Tweed manipulated elections, controlled city contracts, and used public money as a personal vault. His crimes unfolded during the Gilded Age, a period defined by rapid growth, unchecked capitalism, and deep political fraud. This episode uncovers how Tweed built an empire of graft that touched nearly every corner of New York City.Through padded invoices, rigged bids, and backroom deals, Tweed and his inner circle drained the city of staggering sums. Some historians estimate the losses at more than one billion dollars when adjusted for modern value. Yet for years, Tweed remained untouchable. His influence stretched across courts, the press, and even the immigrant communities he claimed to support. The system existed to protect him until one unexpected force turned the tide: exposure by political cartoonist Thomas Nast.This episode dives into the rise and fall of Tweed, the structure of the Tammany Hall machine, and the investigations that finally brought the Boss down. It also explores how political corruption shaped New York's future and the lasting lessons about power, money, and influence in American politics. Join us as Forgotten History reveals the hidden story behind one of the most notorious figures of the Gilded Age.Written and hosted by Colin D. Heaton. Forgotten History is a 10th Legion Pictures Production.This video explores historical events for educational purposes, without graphic detail. All content is contextual and documentary in nature.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2-W4yx3S9A