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Through the mist of forgotten histories, the figure of William J. Flynn beckons, offering a glimpse into a life that, though eclipsed by time, remains a testament to human endeavor and spirit.
In the early 20th century, Flynn, known as the “Bulldog Detective,” was one of the most famous detectives in America.
As head of the U.S. Secret Service and later the Bureau of Investigation (forerunner of the FBI), Flynn led the chase for counterfeiters, took on the first Mafia crime family, pursued German spies during World War I, and launched America’s first “war on terrorism” against anarchist bombers who blew up Wall Street.
Yet today, Flynn is largely forgotten, overshadowed by his more controversial successor, J. Edgar Hoover.
A new book aims to change that and restore Flynn to his rightful place in history.
In “The Bulldog Detective,” terrorism expert Jeffrey D. Simon provides the first full biography of this remarkable yet unsung American lawman.
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