Jonathan Wild (baptised 6 May 1683 – 24 May 1725) was perhaps the most infamous criminal of London — and possibly Great Britain — during the 18th century, both because of his own actions and the uses novelists, playwrights, and political satirists made of them. He invented a scheme which allowed him to run one of the most successful gangs of thieves of the era, all the while appearing to be the nation's leading policeman. He manipulated the press and the nation's fears to become the most loved public figure of the 1720s; this love turned to hatred when his villainy was exposed. After his death, he became a symbol of corruption and hypocrisy.
Read more about Jonathan Wild: Early Life, Coming Into His Own, Wild's Public Career As "Thief-Taker General", The Jack Sheppard Struggle and Downfall, Arrest, Trial and Execution, Literary Treatments
Famous quotes containing the words jonathan and/or wild:
“I have no plans to call on you, Clarice. The world’s more interesting with you.”
—Ted Tally, U.S. screenwriter, and Jonathan Demme. Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins)
“The colicky baby who becomes calm, the quiet infant who throws temper tantrums at two, the wild child at four who becomes serious and studious at six all seem to surprise their parents. It is difficult to let go of one’s image of a child, say goodbye to the child a parent knows, and get accustomed to this slightly new child inhabiting the known child’s body.”
—Ellen Galinsky (20th century)