George W. Plunkitt, was an American politician in New York State during the late 1800’s.  He was a member of the Tammany Hall machine in New York City.  At the time of his death in 1924 he was a millionaire. One million dollars in 1924, would be worth approximately $14,084,970 today.  In his autobiography, written by William L. Riordan, he was very open as to how he made his money.  He talked about what he called “Honest graft” and how he was able to get inside information, and invest accordingly.  I have come up with two reasons that explain why he was so open with how he made his money.

I think one of the main reasons he was so open was because of publicity.  I believe that Plunkitt shared his techniques because he knew they would bring him fame.  I think this is also why he authorized the publication of his autobiography written by William Riordan.

Another reason I think Plunkitt was so open, was because he wanted to give other people insights into his strategies.  I honestly believe he wanted to show people that they needed to find their opportunities, and take them.   In a sense, I think he wanted to show young men and women that they also could make a fortune in politics.  Now days, “honest graft” and some of the other foxy politician acts are illegal.  Young men and women today, cannot legally follow in the footsteps of Mr. George Washington Plunkitt.

“I seen my opportunities and I took ’em.”-George W. Plunkitt