Author

Date of Award

11-26-2014

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

History

First Advisor

Charles Romney

Abstract

This project involves exploring the life of Leo Patrick McLaughlin, especially his time as mayor of Hot Springs, by web exhibit, http://leopmclaughlin.omeka.net/exhibits/show/leo-patrick-mclaughlin--the-un. The goal is to inform readers of this colorful character in Arkansas history. This has been achieved by examining the gambling syndicate and political machine that McLaughlin created, as well as his connections with underworld figures such as Al Capone, Bugs Moran, and other criminals on the Most Wanted list. Upon examination of these connections, it will become clear to readers that Mayor McLaughlin began to think himself untouchable, demonstrated by his attempts to take on Governor Carl Bailey and Governor Sid McMath. This research highlights a man often omitted from the history books.

Included in

History Commons

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