Big Jim Folsom: The Two Faces of Populism

In 1946 populist governor James E. "Big Jim" Folsom overpowers the planter class who have been running Alabama since the days of slavery. Advocating equal opportunity for African Americans, he is attacked by newspapers and representatives of the privileged class. His protege George Corley Wallace turns from liberalism on race to a different form of populism, based on prejudice toward blacks.In 1946 populist governor James E. "Big Jim" Folsom overpowers the planter class who have been running Alabama since the days of slavery. Advocating equal opportunity for African Americans, he is attacked by newspapers and ... Read more