Wallace, George, 1919-1998 to Ms. Martin
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00295 Author/Creator: Wallace, George, 1919-1998 Place Written: Montgomery, Alabama Type: Typed letter signed Date: April 14, 1964 Pagination: 2 p. : Height: 26.6 cm, Width: 18.5 cm Order a Copy
Wallace, Governor of Alabama, replies to Martin's request for literature on the subject of segregation in the South. He informs Martin that the Governor's office does not have any material on the subject of segregation, stating "we have never had a problem here in the South except in a very few isolated instances and these have been the result of outside agitators." He declares "I personally have done more for the Negroes of the State of Alabama than any other individual." Cites the creation of new jobs and high salaries for Alabama's African-American teachers during his term as Governor, as well as the establishment of a network of junior colleges and trade schools. He rationalizes segregation by stating "White and colored have lived together in the South for generations in peace ... They each prefer their own pattern of society, their own churches and their own schools - which history and experience have proven are best for both races." The letter is typed in blue ink on stationary of the Alabama Governor's Office. Digital image includes redacted name and address of recipient for privacy.
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