Get to Know Michael A. Dorn

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Michael A. Dorn is a historian, author, and former U.S. intelligence analyst with a lifelong passion for politics and Los Angeles history. A UCLA graduate with a degree in Political Science, he spent 36 years as an intelligence and research analyst with the U.S. Air Force and the FBI, specializing in domestic terrorism for much of his bureau career. His deep fascination with Los Angeles mayoral elections and meticulous research led to the creation of American Alcalde, a ten-volume chronicle of the city’s political evolution. When not writing, he dedicates his time to community service in the city he loves through the Knights of Columbus fraternal organization.

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A Career Rooted in Research & History

Dorn’s fascination with history and politics began in grade school. He pursued a Bachelor’s in Political Science from UCLA (Class of 1990), focusing on comparative politics and governments. His lifelong passion for collecting political campaign pins and buttons fueled his interest in election history.

After serving as an intelligence analyst in the U.S. Air Force, he joined the FBI in 1987, where he spent over 20 years specializing in Domestic Terrorism and was designated a Subject Matter Expert in the field. His distinguished service earned him numerous awards, including the FBI Director’s Award for Distinguished Service (2001) and commendations from the LAPD, U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Writing & Legacy

Dorn’s career required extensive report writing, refining his ability to present complex information in a compelling and accessible manner. His greatest challenge in writing American Alcalde was sifting through conflicting historical records, which he overcame by relying on original source documents and citing over 34,000 footnotes.

His information-rich storytelling draws inspiration from James A. Michener, Harris Newmark, and Horace Bell. Outside of writing, he is dedicated to community service through the Knights of Columbus.