Oral history interview with Claude Pepper, February 1, 1974

This relatively brief interview offers a snapshot of the South in the 1970s, when conservatism had solidified its hold on the region. Legendary Florida Democratic politician Claude Pepper describes his political career and assesses Florida's political leanings. Pepper grew more liberal as he grew older, a trend he admits is unusual. He supported the New Deal and a number of liberal policies throughout his tenure in the U.S. Senate, which lasted from 1934 to 1950 (he joined the House of Representatives in 1963 and served there until 1989). Pepper's career suffered because of his support for civil rights, and his political opponents exploited racism to discourage white Floridians from voting for him. Pepper believes that civil rights and the success of the New Deal -- which removed the need for an active federal government -- explain the political conservatism in Florida.