Chapter 2, "J. Edgar, Joe, and Me" Summary and Analysis

Joe Carroll's life up through the birth of James Carroll, his second son, is outlined in this chapter of background history. The author objectively recounts the childhood and early adulthood of Joseph Carroll, his father. James' style is factual and descriptive with themes of Irish Catholicism and politics interweaving. Joe's childhood stands in stark contrast to the social standing he later achieves. Compared to the conflicted and painful opening chapter, this section is uplifting and expresses an admiring son's tale of struggles his father goes through. There are moderate uses of flashbacks and forwards to bring in memorable events in order to develop a broader, sympathetic and more mature perspective.

Roger Touhy is a Chicago bank robber, kidnapper and killer that has a significant impact on his father's career...