The Pinkertons

This book explores the history of the Pinkerton National Detective Agency, the private police force that played a pivotal role in shaping modern surveillance and law enforcement in America. From its beginnings in the 1850s to its involvement in historic events and its influence on the FBI, the narrative uncovers the agency’s dual nature as both a protector and a strikebreaker. Drawing on extensive historical records, it reveals how Pinkertons pioneered techniques like criminal databases and undercover work, while also delving into the myth-making surrounding its founder and legacy.