Public Enemies: America’s Greatest Crime Wave and the Birth of the FBI, 1933-1934 (Book Notes)

Written by Bryan Burrough (and adapted into a movie starring Johnny Depp in 2009), Public Enemies chronicles the crime wave that swept across America during the early 1930s, focusing on the exploits of notorious gangsters such as John Dillinger, Bonnie and Clyde, and Baby Face Nelson.

The book provides a detailed account of the various crimes committed by these infamous outlaws, including bank robberies, kidnappings, and murders. Burrough also delves into the social and political context of the time, examining the economic hardship and political corruption that contributed to the rise of organized crime in America.

One of the strengths of the book is Burrough's meticulous research. He draws on a wide range of sources, including newspaper accounts, court documents, and interviews with surviving family members and law enforcement officials. This allows him to provide a comprehensive and compelling narrative of this tumultuous period in American history.

Another notable aspect of the book is Burrough's focus on the birth of the FBI and its role in bringing down the gangsters. He details the efforts of FBI director J. Edgar Hoover to transform the Bureau into a professional law enforcement agency, and how this ultimately led to the downfall of many of America's most wanted criminals.

SUMMARY: Public Enemies: America’s Greatest Crime Wave and the Birth of the FBI, 1933-1934 is a fascinating and well-written account of a pivotal moment in American history. Burrough's research is impressive, and his narrative is both gripping and informative. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of organized crime in America and the birth of the FBI as we know it today.

Get the Book: Digital Book (Apple Books) | Audiobook (Apple Books)

Get the Movie: Digital Film (AppleTV)