Settling in a city founded by the Puritans, the Irish of Boston evolved into one of America's most distinctive ethnic communities - and eventually came to dominate local politics. In an authoritative narrative, rich with anecdote, Thomas H. O'Connor chronicles the growth of Irish political power in Boston, from the colourful ward bosses of the late nineteenth century and the celebrated political machine of mayor James Michael Curley to the resurgent neighbourhood populists of today.