Anton Cermak (May 9, 1873 – March 6, 1933) was an American politician of Czech origin who served as mayor of Chicago from 1931 until his death in 1933. Born in Bohemia and raised in the United States, Cermak rose through local politics to become a leading figure in Chicago’s Democratic organization during the early 20th century.
Political career and style
Cermak forged a broad coalition of ethnic and working-class voters—Polish, Czech, Italian, Irish and African American—that reshaped city politics. Known as a pragmatic organizer and political boss, he emphasized patronage, municipal services, and alliances with labor groups. His victory ended years of Republican influence and signaled a shift toward the Democratic machine that would dominate Chicago politics for decades.
Assassination and aftermath
In February 1933, while attending a public event in Miami where President-elect Franklin D. Roosevelt was appearing, Cermak was shot by an assassin who fired at the presidential party. Cermak survived the initial wound but died weeks later from complications. His shooting raised questions about public safety at political events and had an immediate emotional impact on Chicago’s immigrant communities.
Legacy
Cermak is remembered for building a durable urban political coalition and for representing immigrants’ rising political influence. Several Chicago landmarks, most visibly Cermak Road, commemorate his name. Historians view his tenure as a turning point that strengthened machine politics while expanding city services to new populations.
Quick facts
- Born in Bohemia (now in the Czech Republic).
- Mayor of Chicago, 1931–1933.
- Assassinated after being shot at a public appearance in 1933.
- Remembered as an organizer who mobilized immigrant voters.