FBI had file on Chicago author

November 16, 2009 (NEW YORK) The file, which was obtained by the NYCity News Service under the Freedom of Information Act, shows Terkel once applied for a job with the FBI -- but was turned down.

The news service says the FBI refused to release the entire file.

According to the AP, the Pulitzer Prize-winner's longtime editor, Andre Schiffrin, said Terkel was proud the FBI was concerned enough about him to start a file.

Terkel's books usually focused on working people and the downtrodden, and he took an active role in the civil rights movement and opposed the Vietnam War.

Terkel died last year at age 96.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.