The governor of Arkansas most widely remembered for favoring segregation was Orval Eugene Faubus.
Orval Eugene Faubus: A Complex Legacy
Orval Eugene Faubus served an unprecedented six consecutive terms as governor of Arkansas, holding the office longer than any other individual in the state's history. While his tenure, from 1955 to 1967, included elements of progressive policy, it was also marred by significant political corruption and, most notably, his strong opposition to racial integration.
The Little Rock Central High School Crisis
Faubus gained national and international infamy for his decisive action to prevent the desegregation of Little Rock Central High School in 1957. He deployed the Arkansas National Guard to block nine African American students, famously known as the Little Rock Nine, from entering the school. This defiant act directly challenged the federal government's authority following the landmark Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court ruling. President Dwight D. Eisenhower eventually intervened by federalizing the National Guard and sending in the 101st Airborne Division to ensure the students' entry, highlighting a pivotal moment in the American Civil Rights Movement.
Key Aspects of Orval Eugene Faubus's Governorship:
Aspect | Description |
---|---|
Name | Orval Eugene Faubus |
Position | Governor of Arkansas |
Tenure | Six consecutive terms (longest-serving in Arkansas history) |
Stance on Segregation | Favored, notably demonstrated by his attempt to block the desegregation of Central High School in 1957. |
Other Distinctions | His record included some progressive policies but also significant political corruption. |
For further details on Orval Eugene Faubus's life and political career, you can refer to the Encyclopedia of Arkansas.