| Parker, George (criminal) |
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George Parker was one of the most audacious Con Men in American history. He made his living selling New York's public landmarks to unwary tourists. His favorite object for sale was the Brooklyn Bridge , which he sold twice a week for years. Other public landmarks he sold included the original Madison Square Garden , Grant's Tomb and the Statue Of Liberty . George had many different methods for making his sales. When he sold Grant's Tomb, he would often pose as the general's grandson. He even set up a fake "office" to handle his real estate swindles. Eventually, George was convicted of fraud. He spent the last eight years of his life in prison. They weren't unhappy years, since the other inmates never tired of hearing stories of his swindles. George is remembered as one of the most successful con men in the history of the United States, as well as one of history's most talented hoaxers. His exploits have passed into popular culture, with phrases like "and if you believe that, I have a bridge to sell you" a popular way of expressing a belief that someone is gullible. |
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