Killing the Mob Book Summary - Killing the Mob Book explained in key points
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Killing the Mob summary

The Fight Against Organized Crime in America

4.5 (330 ratings)
22 mins

Brief summary

Killing the Mob by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard is a non-fiction book that explores the organized crime in America during the 20th century. It provides a detailed account of the ruthless individuals and organizations who gained immense power and influence during this time.

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    Killing the Mob
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    Bonnie and Clyde were America’s original outlaw sweethearts.

    Along with the new breed of villains and gangsters that emerged during the Great Depression was the man tasked with catching them. His name was J. Edgar Hoover, head of the Bureau of Investigation, America’s first national law-enforcement agency. Who did Hoover set his sights on first? You’ve probably heard of them: Bonnie and Clyde.

    In 1934, the young Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow were on a roll. Their relationship had begun in 1930 when Bonnie was an unemployed waitress and Clyde was an impoverished laborer. Bonnie had left her first husband years earlier, though she still had his name tattooed on her thigh. She enjoyed writing poetry, but when she met Clyde, she turned her attention to stealing cars, holding up gas stations, and robbing banks with her new boyfriend.

    Bonnie and Clyde weren’t the sort of people you’d expect to pose a physical threat. For starters, both of them walked with a limp. Bonnie’s legs had been badly burned in a car crash, and Clyde had deliberately chopped off two of his toes during a prison stint, to avoid being assigned hard labor. It was a testament to their love that, when the pain in Bonnie’s legs got really bad, Clyde would carry her around. When police found photos that Bonnie and Clyde had taken of themselves, they looked just like any other young couple in love – well, apart from the sawn-off shotgun that Bonnie was brandishing. When the photos were published in the press, Bonnie and Clyde became celebrities overnight: a glamorous symbol of rebellion against the cruel banks who were pushing people into poverty.

    But there was a brutal side to this love story; Bonnie and Clyde had killed 13 people during their crime spree. Hoover was determined not to let that number climb any higher.

    Unlike these criminal lovebirds, Hoover had no romance in his life. At the age of 29, he still lived with his elderly mother, and his only friend was said to be his dog. Hoover dedicated himself to eliminating crime. On May 23, 1934, Hoover’s agents finally tracked down Bonnie and Clyde and opened fire on the car they were traveling in. Both were killed, with Clyde dying first. Bonnie’s screams when she realized Clyde was dead would stay with the agents for the rest of their lives.

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    What is Killing the Mob about?

    Killing the Mob (2021) explores America’s uneasy relationship with organized crime. It exposes the shocking influence of the Mafia on twentieth-century history and culture and reveals the outrageous exploits of America’s most notorious gangsters.

    Killing the Mob Review

    Killing the Mob (2021) is a thrilling account of the relentless pursuit to dismantle organized crime in America. Here's why this book is definitely worth reading:

    • It uncovers the shocking truths behind the rise and fall of notorious mobsters, providing a rare glimpse into the dark underbelly of organized crime.
    • With meticulous research and detailed storytelling, the book delves into the strategies employed by law enforcement to bring down these powerful criminals, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
    • Through its fascinating narrative, the book reveals the far-reaching impact of the mob on American society, making it a compelling read that goes beyond just the crime genre.

    Who should read Killing the Mob?

    • True crime lovers
    • gangster movie aficionados
    • History buffs looking for a different angle

    About the Author

    Bill O’Reilly is an author, journalist, and television host. His show The O’Reilly Factor was one of America’s most popular cable shows, and his Killing book series is the best-selling nonfiction series of all time. Martin Dugard is a New York Times best-selling author; his books include Into Africa and The Explorers.

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    Killing the Mob FAQs 

    What is the main message of Killing the Mob?

    Killing the Mob exposes the dark truths behind organized crime, revealing the relentless pursuit of justice against powerful criminals.

    How long does it take to read Killing the Mob?

    The estimated reading time for Killing the Mob is several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just a few minutes.

    Is Killing the Mob a good book? Is it worth reading?

    Killing the Mob is a gripping and informative book that sheds light on the underworld of organized crime. A must-read for true crime enthusiasts.

    Who is the author of Killing the Mob?

    Killing the Mob is co-authored by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard.

    What to read after Killing the Mob?

    If you're wondering what to read next after Killing the Mob, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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