The Dixiecrats
In the 1950s the Dixiecrats didnt continue as a party but continued to oppose
1957- Senator Thurmond held the longest filibuster(24 hours and 18 minutes) in an attempt to prevent the Civil Rights Bill
Truman was aware of racial tension within USA
Had to tread carefully because Dixiecrats would oppose reforms
In 1960s election, John Kennedy had to be careful to not upset Dixiecrats
Kept civil rights low on his agenda and focused on discussing foreign affairs
Many dixiecrats joined the White Citizens Councils
Some even left the Democrats and joined the Republicans
1948 Presidential election
Split the Democrats
Dixiecrat
The term to describe white southern Democrats opposed to civil rights legislation
Dixiecrats formed their own political party
Won more than one million votes in the 1948 election