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Whispering Wires: The Tragic Tale of an American Bootlegger,Used
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Philip Metcalfe has described his role as an author as that of "a painter who endows a lost world with the personality and the dailiness it once possessed." In Whispering Wires, Metcalfe tells the story of Roy Olmstead, one of the principal bootleggers in Prohibitionera Seattle, and the first major federal court case concerning the use of wiretaps. He writes, "Set into motion then was a constellation of conditions that no one could have foretold. Prohibition had produced a shadow universe governed by an aberrant moral algebra." This historical narrative follows the city officials, Prohibition agents, and rumrunners who chased, evaded, and doublecrossed each other during one of Seattles most thrilling eras.Praise for Whispering Wires: "A riveting account of the shadowy world of Prohibition bootleggers, smugglers, enforcement agents, and federal bureaucrats ... this pathbreaking work of scholarship has the feel of an action movie while documenting the legacy of corruption and betrayal left by both sides in the notorious liquor wars." David A. Horowitz, Ph.D., Professor of History, Portland State University, and author, Americas Political Class Under Fire: The 20th Centurys Great Culture War."...A lively story with plenty of lessons for today about the difficulty of legislating morality and the legal snarls that arise when technology (wiretapping in this case) outruns legal precedent ... Historians, law enforcement scholars, and Seattle residents will all find Whispering Wires a fascinating addition to their libraries." Carl Abbott, Ph.D., Professor of Urban Studies and Planning, Portland State University "Metcalfe succeeds brilliantly in evoking the personalities of bootleggers and rumrunners and the local and federal officials who pursued them ... a must read for anyone who wants to understand the triumphs and tragedies of these complex lives." Nancy Bristow, Ph.D., Professor of History, University of Puget Sound "...One of the most engaging stories yet of Americas Noble Experiment of alcohol prohibition ... wellresearched and wellwritten history, but also a highly entertaining tale of one of the most fascinating periods in American history." William L. White, Author, Slaying the Dragon: The History of Addiction Treatment and Recovery in America
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: The book contains three hundred sixty-eight pages. This length provides an in-depth exploration of the Prohibition era and its complexities.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: The book is available in paperback binding. This makes it lightweight and portable for easy reading.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures six inches in length, point nine one inches in width, and nine inches in height. These dimensions make it a standard-sized book for comfortable handling.
- Q: Who is the author of Whispering Wires? A: The author is Philip Metcalfe. He is known for his engaging historical narratives that bring past events to life.
- Q: What genre does this book belong to? A: This book belongs to the State & Local history genre. It specifically focuses on the Prohibition era in Seattle.
- Q: Is the book suitable for young readers? A: The book is intended for adult and mature audiences. It discusses complex themes related to morality and law enforcement during Prohibition.
- Q: What themes are explored in Whispering Wires? A: The book explores themes of corruption, morality, and the impact of technology on law enforcement. It provides a detailed look into the lives of bootleggers and officials.
- Q: How should I read this book for the best experience? A: For the best experience, read the book in a quiet setting. It’s recommended to take notes on key events and characters for better understanding.
- Q: Does this book require any prior knowledge of the topic? A: No, the book does not require prior knowledge. It offers enough context for readers to understand the historical events discussed.
- Q: How do I care for this paperback book? A: To care for the paperback book, keep it away from moisture and direct sunlight. Store it upright on a shelf for optimal preservation.
- Q: Is there any special handling required for this book? A: No special handling is required for this book. Just avoid bending the cover or pages to maintain its condition.
- Q: What if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, you can return it for a replacement or refund. Ensure to keep the original packaging for a smoother return process.
- Q: Can I find this book in libraries? A: Yes, many libraries carry Whispering Wires due to its historical significance. You can check your local library’s catalog for availability.
- Q: What makes this book a good choice for history buffs? A: The book offers a riveting account of Prohibition-era Seattle, filled with rich narratives and scholarly insights that will engage history enthusiasts.
- Q: Are there any recommended companion reads? A: Yes, companion reads could include other books on Prohibition or American history. Titles like 'Slaying the Dragon' by William L. White complement its themes.
- Q: What is the publication date of Whispering Wires? A: The publication date is not provided in the details. You may need to check online retailers for the release year.