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La History-Chapter 14 Review

Chapter 14

Corruption, Reform, and Reaction, 1935-1950
Huey Long’s death marked the end of one era and the beginning of another. After Long’s assassination, politicians sought to continue his dictatorial rule, but proved to be lesser men. The resulting scandals of 1939 generated a reform movement putting the Anti-Longites into power. It was during this period that Louisiana emerged from the Great Depression and entered into the most prosperous era, yet many continued to lead second class lives.

The Leche Administration, 1936-1939
Huey Long ruled Louisiana with an iron hand. Long based his political dictatorship on cultivating popular support, which became known as his “bread and circuses” program. Long proclaimed himself champion of the poor. Long kept his campaign promises to provide Louisiana free school textbooks, new roads, bridges, hospitals, and many more. Long’s death was unexpected and many were eager to replace him, such as:
1. Earl K. Long—Huey’s brother
2. James A. Noe—A Monroe oil tycoon
3. Wade O. Martin, Sr.—the chair of the Public Service Commission
4. John B. Fournet—a state supreme court justice
5. Allen J. Ellender—the speaker of the state house
6. Earle A. Christenberry—Huey’s personal secretary
7. Richard W. Leche—Most corrupt governor in La history
But without the gifted touch of Huey, the Long machine failed and they were forced to unite. The Longites choose Richard W. Leche and Earl Long. Now the Longites swept all statewide offices and ¾ of the seats in the legislature. In a deal made with Roosevelt, tens of millions of dollars would be funneled into the WPA. The Leche administration:
1. built numerous roads, bridges, and schools
2. implemented a state old-age pension
3. gave school teachers a hefty pay raise
4. construction/opening of Charity Hospital in New Orleans(1939)
5. enacted a teacher tenure law and a teacher’s retirement system
6. signed the Louisiana Fair Trade Law of 1936(price fixing)

The Scandals...