“Hoover knew who was in control and it was Lyndon Johnson.” A Conversation with Paul Letersky on his years assisting J. Edgar Hoover. - a podcast by LBJ Foundation

For over 50 years J. Edgar Hoover reigned supreme over the Federal Bureau of Investigation, wielding outsize political power as he inspired fear in enemies and allies alike. Through the course of eight presidencies, the Director waged battle against anyone he considered to be a possible enemy of state –from suspected Communists and instigators to terrorist groups like the Ku Klux Klan and the Weathermen. 

 

The story of the legendary but controversial FBI director is told through the eyes of one who knew him well. Paul Letersky’s new book, The Director: My Years Assisting J. Edgar Hoover, chronicles his years working directly for Hoover, starting in 1966 when he was unexpectedly tapped by Hoover to be a member of his personal staff.

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