About Paul Caranci

Paul F. Caranci is a historian, lecturer and author of six books including the recently released Scoundrels: Defining Corruption Through Tales of Political Intrigue in Rhode Island (Stillwater River Publications, 2016). He previously authored The Hanging & Redemption of John Gordon: The True Story of Rhode Island’s Last Execution (History Press, 2012), and Monumental Providence: Legends of History In Sculpture, Statuary, Monuments and Memorials (Stillwater River Publications, 2015), which he co-authored with his daughter Heather. Paul served in various elected and appointed government positions for over 35 years including appointment as Deputy Secretary of State of Rhode Island (2007 – 2015) and election to the North Providence Town Council on which he served for over 16 years. While serving in that capacity Paul worked with the FBI to expose a corruption scheme that resulted in the imprisonment of five principals and the conviction of four others. For his efforts Paul was awarded the Margaret Chase Smith American Democracy Award for Political Courage by the National Association of Secretaries of State. Former recipients of that award include Rosa Parks, Judge John J. Sirica and President Jimmy Carter. Paul is a third generation resident of North Providence and a 1977 graduate of Providence College.