#14265
Mentioned in 2 episodes

The last hurrah

Book • 1956
The Last Hurrah, written by Edwin O'Connor, tells the story of Frank Skeffington, a 72-year-old Irish-American politician running for another term as mayor in an unnamed East Coast city, widely believed to be Boston.

The novel is a detailed and insightful view of urban politics, particularly the old-style machine politics that Skeffington has mastered.

Through the eyes of his nephew, Adam Caulfield, the story follows Skeffington's final campaign, highlighting his flaws and achievements.

The novel portrays the end of an era in American politics, marked by the decline of local machine politics and the rise of new campaign methods, such as television advertising.

Skeffington's defeat and subsequent death symbolize the transition to a new political era, one that is less dependent on local patronage and more on national social welfare programs.

Mentioned by

Mentioned in 2 episodes

Mentioned as the book the movie “The Last Hurrah” is based on.
16 snips
Furnishing the Mind | Interview: Chris Stirewalt
Mentioned by
undefined
David Frum
as a novel about American urban politics.
13 snips
The Fight for the Political Center
Referenced by Steve Bannon as being reminiscent of the recent election results.
Episode 4587: The Truth Behind The New NYC Mayor; Wake Up Call For 2026
Recommended by
undefined
Eliot Cohen
as a political novel about James Curley, a Boston politician.
Shakespeare and Power

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app