Forgotten First Citizen: John Bigelow

Summary

Margaret Clapp revives the reputation of John Bigelow, a nineteenth century editor, diplomat, and writer who shaped public life without becoming a household name. The biography covers his work as co editor of the New York Evening Post, his diplomatic service in France during the Civil War, and his role in exposing financial scandal in New York. Clapp argues that Bigelow's quiet influence touched journalism, politics, and letters across decades.