Gangsters of Capitalism explores the history of American military and economic expansionism through the life of former Marine Corps major general Smedley D. Butler.

Major General Smedley Butler was a household name in the early 20th century.

Having fought in six different wars across three continents, Butler was a two-time recipient of the Medal of Honor and the subject of several biographies.

But while he was considered a hero in America, elsewhere Butler was known as the man who had helped militarize the police and topple democracies throughout Latin America.

Unlike many of his counterparts, Butler would later exhibit regret for his exploits, delivering a series of books and lectures denouncing his participation in American imperialism.

In this book, award-winning author and journalist Jonathan M. Katz, whose work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, and The Guardian, explores Butler's life and legacy.