Introduction Summary and Analysis

The introduction was written one day after Daley died and briefly reflects on the character of the man that so paralleled the character of the city. Richard J. Daley was a rough-tough character, Chicago rough-tough. His grammar and speaking skills did not bring the praise of teachers—far from it. He was hot-tempered, simple, devious and powerful. Many in the country may not have understood him, but Chicagoans did. Daley reflected Chicago. Daley was a product of his neighborhood. He reflected its values—loyalty to family, neighbors, old buddies, the corner grocer. Good neighbors cut their grass and don't have their TVs too loud. He was a pious man—ever faithful to his church, mom and apple pie, disturbed by public displays of immorality. But if somebody in City Hall had a chance to make some money on...