Jonathan Wild

Jonathan Wild (1683–May 24, 1725) was perhaps the most famous criminal of London — and possibly Great Britain — during the 18th century, both because of his own actions and the uses novelists, playwrights, and political satirists made of them. He invented a scheme which allowed him to run one of the most successful gangs of thieves of the era, all the while appearing to be the nation's leading policeman. He manipulated the press and the nation's fears to become the most loved public figure of the 1720s; this love turned to hatred when his villainy was exposed. After his death, he became a symbol of naked corruption and hypocrisy.

Related Topics:
1683 - May 24 - 1725 - Criminal - London - Great Britain - 18th century - Novel - Playwright - Satirists - Gang - Thieves - Police - Press - 1720s - Villain - Corruption - Hypocrisy

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