The Great Riots of New York, 1712 to 1873

"The Great Riots of New York, 1712 to 1873" by Joel Tyler Headley is a historical exploration of the numerous riots that shaped New York City, revealing the city’s complicated social fabric and the energies of its varied inhabitants. The author, motivated by requests to document these critical events, argues that past accounts have underplayed the riots' importance, especially those that occurred during the Civil War and influenced the nation's stability. Headley emphasizes the perils of mob behavior and the urgency of implementing effective strategies to stop future unrest by advocating for improvements in police tactics. The book captures the chaotic societal changes and conflicts of the time through the lens of these disturbances, setting a critical tone for comprehending these events.