Philip Napoli
Philip Napoli is our professor for this class. He is a well-known historian of New York City. Professor Napoli told us a story that allowed us to grasp how crime-ridden the city was. During this crisis, a young Professor Napoli chose to visit New York City from Cincinnati, Ohio by himself. Professor Napoli had to speak to a subway booth worker for some assistance. As Professor Napoli was walking away, the booth worker blurted out “He is dead.” Professor Napoli also described how the New York City Sanitation Department stopped collecting garbage in many parts of the city. Professor Napoil also elaborated on the dire state of New York City. Professor Napoli described how Mayor Abraham Beame was on his way to declaring bankruptcy, carrying the default papers in his hands. The head of the Teachers’ Union, Albert Shanker, stopped the Mayor, as Shanker finally agreed to cutbacks and attrition. We thank Professor Napoli not only for this interview, but also for the guidance, support, and encouragement he provided throughout the semester.
Interview with Professor Napoli: