Ask Steve: George Wallace

(1m 33s) tv-pg

Who is George Wallace and why is he important? Steve Gillon shows the importance and significance of George Wallace in American history. Through his racist views, George Wallace redefined the American Political System. In 1963, Alabama Governor George Wallace tried to prevent the integration of the University of Alabama. Then in 1968, Wallace ran as an Independent candidate for the United States Presidency. Wallace represented a party of backlash, mainly appealing to the frustration of white, middle class workers. While people assumed Wallace would appeal to the South where racist views were more prevalent, he appealed surprisingly to northern Democrats. Lastly, Wallace created a new language of politics, allowing Republicans to make his message in a respectful way to win over southern, white voters. Without George Wallace, there may never have been a Richard Nixon or Ronald Reagan.

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