ABSTRACT
John Peter Altgeld was the most reviled man of his generation. The fear that his enemies were about to seize control of the Democratic party strengthened Altgeld’s combative spirit. He began a strategic campaign that once more revealed his great skill as a politician and his uncompromising devotion to progressive reform. Like Abraham Lincoln, Altgeld was born and reared in poverty and made his way to the highest office within his reach by sheer ability and strength of character. Altgeld was quick to perceive the possibilities of large profits in land transactions. In 1879 he invested five hundred dollars in a lot. One very good reason for labor’s faith in Altgeld was the publication in 1884 of his important volume, Our Penal Machinery and Its Victims. Despite his preoccupation with the rising Unity Building and his extensive law practice, Altgeld continued to participate in public affairs.
