Donn Piatt (1819–1891) was a celebrated diplomat, historian, journalist, judge, lawyer, legislator, lobbyist, novelist, playwright, poet, well-known humorist, and consummate Washington insider. Having served as an American diplomat in France in the 1850s, he had a strong and influential interest in foreign affairs. After the Civil War, Piatt became famous nationwide as a Washington editor. In his newspaper, The Capital, he fearlessly attacked President Grant and Congress, defended workers, and mocked all parties –– Catholics, Protestants, Democrats, Republicans, and millionaires. Papers across the country carried his witticisms and criticisms, which helped to shape the public’s views on the nation’s agenda. Early reviewers summed it up best.