Huey Long: Share Our Wealth & Apush Impact

Huey Long is a significant figure. His policies had a great impact. The Great Depression occurred during his time. Many Americans struggled during the Great Depression. Huey Long proposed “Share Our Wealth” program. The “Share Our Wealth” program aimed to redistribute wealth. Populist movement supported Huey Long. The Populist movement advocated for the common people. APUSH examines Huey Long. APUSH analyzes his impact on American history.

The Kingfish: A Louisiana Tale of Ambition and Intrigue

Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we’re diving headfirst into the wild world of Huey P. Long, a character so colorful he makes Mardi Gras look like a black-and-white movie. Long wasn’t just a politician; he was a force of nature, a Louisiana hurricane wrapped in a pinstripe suit.

Now, Huey wasn’t your average Joe. He clawed his way from rural obscurity to become one of the most talked-about, and feared, figures in American history. Think of him as a real-life comic book character, a populist superhero to some, a villainous demagogue to others. His story is a whirlwind of high-stakes politics, bold reforms, and a sudden, shocking end.

We’re talking about a guy who shook up Louisiana with his “Every Man a King” promise, built roads and schools like there was no tomorrow, and wasn’t afraid to tango with the big boys like Standard Oil. But, and there’s always a “but,” he also wielded power with an iron fist, earning himself a reputation as a political strongman.

So, was he a savior of the downtrodden, a champion of the common man? Or was he a power-hungry tyrant, bending the rules to build his own kingdom? That’s the million-dollar question, folks, and the answer, as you’ll soon see, is as murky as the Mississippi River after a good rain.

In this blog post, we’ll unpack the legend of Huey Long, peeling back the layers of myth and controversy to get at the truth, or at least as close as we can get to it. Get ready to explore the man, the myth, and the lasting impact of the Kingfish on Louisiana and the nation. In the meantime, here’s what to expect:

Key Points to Learn

• Rise to Power: How a country boy from Winnfield became the Governor of Louisiana and a U.S. Senator.
• Key Policies: Understand programs like free textbooks, road construction, and the “Share Our Wealth” plan.
• Dramatic Assassination: A detailed look into the events that led to his untimely death and the motives behind it.
• Thesis Statement: Huey Long’s legacy is a complex tapestry of populist reforms, authoritarian tendencies, and unfulfilled ambitions, leaving a lasting impact on Louisiana and the national political landscape during the Great Depression.

From Winnfield to Baton Rouge: The Making of a Populist

Early Life: A Louisiana Boy

Huey Long’s story doesn’t start in a grand mansion, but in the humble setting of Winnfield, Louisiana. Born in 1893, young Huey wasn’t exactly rolling in dough; he was one of ten kids! Imagine the dinner table chaos! His family, though not dirt-poor, certainly knew the value of a dollar. They were small farmers scratching out a living from the land. This upbringing wasn’t just a detail; it was the foundation upon which Long’s entire worldview was built.

Growing up in rural Louisiana at the turn of the century meant witnessing firsthand the struggles of ordinary folks against powerful interests. You’re talking about farmers battling railroads, sharecroppers fighting landlords, and everyday people feeling squeezed by the big guys. This environment instilled in Huey a deep sense of empathy for the underdog and a burning desire to fight for the little guy. It’s safe to say, Winnfield was Long’s political classroom.

Legal Eagle (Sort Of): Ambition Takes Flight

Huey wasn’t content to stay put in Winnfield. Ambition was practically his middle name! Instead of sticking around on the farm, he bounced around different jobs — traveling salesman, auctioneer — picking up experiences and honing his knack for talking to people. But his real goal? To become a lawyer.

Now, Huey’s path to the legal profession was… well, let’s just say it was unconventional. He didn’t exactly have the patience (or the funds) for a traditional law school education. Instead, he crammed, studied independently, and basically talked his way into passing the bar exam at the ripe old age of 22. This “bootstrap” approach to his education perfectly mirrored his later political career: get in, get it done, and don’t let anyone tell you how it should be done.

First Taste of Politics: Taking on the Railroads

With his law degree in hand, Huey set his sights on politics. His first target? The Louisiana Railroad Commission (which later became the Public Service Commission). Now, this might not sound like the most exciting gig, but back then, it was a crucial battleground. The railroads held immense power, charging farmers exorbitant rates to ship their goods.

Long saw the Railroad Commission as his chance to be a champion of the common man. He took on the powerful railroad companies, accusing them of unfair practices and fighting for lower rates. Even though he was a young, relatively unknown lawyer, his fiery rhetoric and undeniable passion started to attract attention. While he didn’t win every battle, he certainly made a name for himself as a fighter.

Running for Governor: A False Start

Long was just getting started and set his eyes on the top prize: the Governor’s Mansion. In 1924, he threw his hat into the ring. His platform? A full-throated attack on the elites, promises of better roads and schools, and a pledge to shake up the status quo. Sound familiar?

Now, Long’s first run for governor wasn’t a roaring success, to say the least. He finished a distant third. But in defeat, Long learned invaluable lessons about Louisiana politics and its voting demographics. He realized that to win, he needed to build a broader coalition and connect with voters on a deeper level. He was defeated, but far from down and out. He would return in 1928 to win it all.

The Lion of Louisiana: Governorship and Transformation

Alright, buckle up, because this is where Huey Long really starts to earn that “Kingfish” nickname! After years of battling it out in the Louisiana political trenches, Huey finally clawed his way to the governor’s mansion. And let me tell you, things in the Bayou State were never the same.

Long’s governorship was like a political hurricane, whipping through Louisiana and leaving a trail of both progress and controversy in its wake. He didn’t just tinker around the edges; he went for a complete overhaul of the state, and fast.

Policies and Programs: Huey’s Blueprint for Louisiana

Now, let’s dive into the specifics of what made Long’s time as governor so darn memorable. He had a vision, and he wasn’t afraid to bulldoze anyone who stood in his way of achieving it!

• Free Textbooks: Imagine telling parents they wouldn’t have to pay for textbooks anymore! Long did just that. He saw education as the great equalizer and fought tooth and nail to provide free textbooks to all schoolchildren. This was a huge deal, especially for poor families, and it left a lasting impact on education in Louisiana.

• Road Construction: Louisiana’s roads were basically dirt tracks before Huey came along. He launched a massive infrastructure project, building roads and bridges all over the state. Not only did this modernize Louisiana’s transportation system, but it also created tons of jobs during the Great Depression. Think of it as Huey’s own version of a New Deal highway program, but just for Louisiana!

• Expansion of Charity Hospital: Long wanted to make sure that everyone, especially the poor and underserved, had access to healthcare. He expanded Charity Hospital in New Orleans, providing more beds and better services to those who needed it most. It was a bold move to give those most in need access to quality healthcare.

• Taxation of Oil Companies: Now, here’s where Huey really ruffled some feathers. He took on Standard Oil and other powerful corporations, demanding that they pay their fair share in taxes. This was a dangerous game, as these companies had deep pockets and plenty of influence, but Huey didn’t back down. This fight was about taking power back to the state, from those at the top.

Controversies and Criticisms: The Dark Side of the Kingfish

Of course, Huey Long’s governorship wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. He was a controversial figure, to say the least, and his methods often drew criticism.

• Accusations of Demagoguery, Corruption, and Authoritarian Rule: Critics accused Long of being a demagogue, using populist rhetoric to manipulate the masses. There were also whispers of corruption, with some alleging that he used his position to enrich himself and his allies. And let’s not forget the accusations of authoritarianism; Long had a tendency to steamroll anyone who disagreed with him.

• Battles with Political Opponents and Consolidation of Power: Huey didn’t just play hardball; he played dirty. He ruthlessly battled his political opponents, using every trick in the book to consolidate his power. He wasn’t afraid to use the levers of state government to crush dissent and maintain his grip on Louisiana.

• Use of Patronage and Control Over State Institutions: Long was a master of patronage, rewarding his loyal supporters with jobs and favors. He also exerted tight control over state institutions, ensuring that they were staffed with people who would do his bidding. This created a system where loyalty to Huey was valued above all else.

From Louisiana to Washington: The Kingfish Goes National

Huey Long’s ambition wasn’t confined to the bayous and backroads of Louisiana. He set his sights on the national stage, winning a seat in the U.S. Senate in 1932. Imagine the firebrand from Winnfield, now hobnobbing (or, more likely, clashing) with the established power brokers in Washington D.C.! This move marked a significant turning point, not just for Long, but for the country. He arrived ready to shake things up.

The New Deal Dance: A Complicated Relationship

Initially, Long threw his weight behind Franklin Delano Roosevelt and his New Deal, seeing it as a potential solution to the economic woes gripping the nation. He thought Roosevelt was his boy! But the honeymoon didn’t last. As the New Deal unfolded, Long became increasingly disillusioned, believing it didn’t go far enough to address the deep-seated inequalities of the era. The cracks started to show, leading to open opposition. It wasn’t just about policy; it was a clash of personalities and philosophies. While FDR favored a more measured, incremental approach, Long wanted a radical restructuring of wealth and power. Their philosophical differences centered on how the government should intervene in the economy and to what extent wealth should be redistributed.

“Every Man a King, But No One Wears a Crown”: The Share Our Wealth Plan

Enter the “Share Our Wealth” plan, Long’s bold (some might say outlandish) proposal to redistribute wealth across America. The centerpiece was a $5,000 grant to every family, funded by confiscating wealth from the super-rich. Income limits would be set, and excess wealth would be taxed heavily. Sound like a Robin Hood fantasy? Maybe. But during the Great Depression, when millions were starving and hope was in short supply, it was a message that resonated deeply.

The appeal was simple: economic security for all. Long promised to banish poverty, provide education, and ensure a decent standard of living for every American. In a time of widespread suffering, this vision of a more equitable society was incredibly attractive, particularly to those who felt forgotten by the political establishment. It was a slogan that worked.

Building a Movement: The Share Our Wealth Society

The “Share Our Wealth” plan wasn’t just a policy proposal; it was the foundation of a movement. The Share Our Wealth Society exploded in popularity, attracting millions of members from all walks of life. Think of it as a proto-social media campaign, fueled by Long’s charisma and the desperation of the times.

Local organizers spread the word, holding rallies, distributing pamphlets, and building a grassroots network that extended across the country. These folks weren’t political elites; they were everyday Americans who believed in Long’s promise of a better future. They saw him as their champion, their voice against the entrenched interests that had brought the country to its knees.

Dreams: A Presidential Ambition?

As Long’s national profile grew, so did speculation about his presidential ambitions. Would he challenge Roosevelt in 1936? The possibility sent shockwaves through the political establishment. He was a force to be reckoned with, a populist phenomenon who tapped into a deep well of anger and frustration. While he never formally announced his candidacy, he certainly acted like he was running, barnstorming the country, building alliances, and sharpening his message. His life in Washington D.C. became a balancing act, juggling his senatorial duties with his growing national profile and potential presidential bid. The Kingfish had Washington D.C. on their toes.

The Kingfish’s Kingdom: Political Ideology and Methods

Okay, folks, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what made Huey Long tick politically. He wasn’t just some random politician; he had a vision, even if it was a bit…unconventional by today’s standards. Long was, at his core, a populist. He spoke directly to the common man—the farmers, the laborers, the folks who felt like they were getting the short end of the stick. His message was simple: the rich were too rich, and the poor needed a break. This resonated deeply with a Depression-era Louisiana struggling with poverty and inequality. He was their champion, their voice against the elite.

But how did Huey put that populism into action? Well, that’s where things get interesting. Long was a master of building a political machine. Now, “political machine” might sound like something out of a history textbook, but it was very real. It was all about control. Long knew that to get things done, he needed to control the levers of power in Louisiana.

• How did he do it?
  • He gained control over state institutions like the legislature, courts, and election boards.
  • He appointed loyalists to key positions, creating a network of supporters who would do his bidding.
  • He wasn’t afraid to bend the rules, sometimes to the breaking point, to achieve his goals.

Of course, this approach wasn’t without its critics. Accusations of corruption, patronage, and suppression of dissent were common. Long’s opponents argued that he was running Louisiana like a dictatorship, using his power to reward friends and punish enemies. There was definitely some truth to these accusations, and it’s a key part of understanding the full picture of his reign.

Here’s a fascinating wrinkle: Long’s ambitious state programs, like road construction and hospital expansion, cooperated quite effectively with federal initiatives like the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and the Public Works Administration (PWA). While Long often criticized FDR, he knew how to leverage federal resources to benefit Louisiana, and that’s no small feat.

Long’s relationship with the Louisiana Democratic Party was, to put it mildly, complicated. He was a Democrat, but he often clashed with the party establishment. He had a way of bending the party to his will, using his charisma and popularity to force them to go along with his agenda. It was a constant power struggle, but one that Long usually won.

Finally, it’s worth mentioning the influence of Long’s family, particularly his brother Earl Long and his wife Rose McConnell Long. Earl, who also served as governor of Louisiana, continued many of Huey’s policies and had his own colorful political career. Rose, after Huey’s death, stepped into the political arena, keeping the Long legacy alive. They were both important figures in their own right and played a role in shaping Huey’s political journey.

Tragedy at the Capitol: Assassination and Immediate Aftermath

Picture this: it’s a warm September evening in 1935, and the Louisiana State Capitol, Huey Long’s pride and joy, is buzzing with activity. Little did anyone know, this night would forever be etched in the annals of history. Our Kingfish, the Lion of Louisiana, was striding through those marble halls, completely unaware that his life was about to take a dramatic, tragic turn.

Now, let’s rewind a bit. Huey had just wrapped up a special session of the legislature, pushing through yet another round of his ambitious (and sometimes controversial) policies. As he made his way through the crowded corridor, a man emerged from the shadows – Dr. Carl Weiss. Who was this guy, and why was he about to change everything?

Dr. Carl Weiss: Madman or Martyr?

Here’s where things get murky, folks. Dr. Carl Weiss, a respected physician, stepped forward and confronted Long. In a flash, shots rang out. Was it Weiss who fired first? Did Long’s bodyguards overreact? The details are still debated to this day.

Some say Weiss was a lone wolf, driven to madness by Long’s relentless attacks on his family. Others whisper of a larger conspiracy, a plot orchestrated by Long’s many enemies. The truth? Well, it’s buried beneath layers of conflicting accounts and unproven theories. What we do know is that Weiss was gunned down almost immediately by Long’s security detail. He didn’t stand a chance.

Chaos and Confusion: The Aftermath

Pandemonium erupted. The Capitol went into lockdown. Huey Long, bleeding and gravely wounded, was rushed to the very hospital he had expanded – the Charity Hospital in New Orleans. Irony, thy name is Huey.

The state was in shock. The investigations began swiftly, but they only seemed to deepen the mystery. Conflicting stories from witnesses, missing evidence, and a general air of confusion clouded the scene. Meanwhile, despite the best efforts of his doctors, Huey Pierce Long Jr. passed away two days later. Louisiana, and indeed the nation, lost one of its most powerful and polarizing figures.

The Widow Takes the Mantle

But the Long legacy didn’t end there. In a move that solidified the family’s continued influence, Huey’s widow, Rose McConnell Long, was appointed to fill his vacant seat in the U.S. Senate. It was a symbolic gesture, a testament to the enduring power of the Kingfish even in death. Rose stepped into the role, becoming the second woman to ever represent Louisiana in the Senate.

The assassination of Huey Long was a watershed moment, a tragedy that left an indelible mark on Louisiana and American politics. The questions surrounding his death, the motives of his assassin, and the true nature of his legacy continue to fascinate and provoke debate to this day.

So, was Huey Long a hero or a demagogue? It’s complicated, right? Hopefully, this gives you a better handle on understanding his place in American history – just remember, there’s always more to the story than meets the eye, especially when you’re trying to ace that APUSH exam. Good luck!