Tommy: The Gun That Changed America

The Thompson submachine gun is a lightweight, fast-firing weapon that has become an iconic symbol of American history.

Developed by John Taliaferro Thompson in 1918, this gun was initially designed for use on the battlefield but quickly found its way into the hands of bootleggers and bank robbers during Prohibition and the Great Depression.

Despite attempts to limit distribution, the Tommy gun remained popular due to its compact size and ability to spray hundreds of bullets in a matter of seconds.

Critically-acclaimed author Karen Blumenthal tells the fascinating story of this famous weapon, including the lives it changed, the debate it sparked, and the unprecedented response it inspired.

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