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