Croker, Richard
Croker, Richard,
1841–1922, American politician, head of TammanyTammanyor Tammany Hall,
popular name for the Democratic political machine in Manhattan. Origins
After the American Revolution several patriotic societies sprang up to promote various political causes and economic interests.
..... Click the link for more information. Hall from 1886 to 1902, b. Co. Cork, Ireland. He became prominent as Democratic leader of New York City's East Side and as an aide of John KellyKelly, John,
1822–86, American politician, boss of Tammany Hall, b. New York City. He entered politics at an early age. At first he opposed Tammany Hall, but later (1853) joined the organization and became city alderman.
..... Click the link for more information. . He was elected (1868) alderman and held minor appointive offices, which increased in importance after Kelly succeeded (1871) William M. Tweed as boss. Croker became Kelly's chief lieutenant, and after Kelly's retirement (1884) Croker was the acknowledged Tammany boss. Croker was (1889–90) city chamberlain and brought about the elections of Hugh Grant (1888), Thomas F. Gilroy (1892), and Robert Van Wyck (1897) as mayors. The election (1901) of Seth Low as mayor of New York caused Croker's abdication as Tammany leader, and he was succeeded by Charles F. MurphyMurphy, Charles Francis,
1858–1924, American political boss, b. New York City. He was the owner of many saloons in New York City and took a keen interest in Democratic politics. His services to Tammany Hall brought him a job as dock commissioner.
..... Click the link for more information. . Croker spent the remainder of his life in leisure in England and Ireland.
Bibliography
See T. L. Stoddard, Master of Manhattan (1931).