Abstract

The Gentlemen From Harlem

This article focuses on two books "Adam Clayton Powell, Jr.: The Political Biography of an American Dilemma," written by Charles V. Hamilton and "Vito Marcantonio: Radical Politician. 1902-1954," written by Gerald Meyer. Charles V. Hamilton's "Adam Clayton Powell, Jr.: The Political Biography of an American Dilemma," is the most comprehensive examination to date of the career of the flamboyant Congressman whose historic achievements were largely overshadowed by his controversial downfall. During his seven terms in Congress, Congressman Vito Marcantonio, Gerald Meyer notes in his valuable study "Vito Marcantonio: Radical Politician, 1902-1954," fought for the interests of working people against a ruling class he believed was bent on maintaining its hegemony.