Only a few political reformers rose to challenge the oligarchy. Others, such as Gov. George Wallace, posed as popular champions, yet they practiced the familiar politics of hate, diverting public energy into an ugly reaction. In Alabama, we simply don't know what an enlightened citizenry might produce. But times are changing. The former plantation counties now cry for help to overcome the debilitating poverty that results from generations of enforced ignorance.
Many corporate leaders join in calling for good schools and fair taxes.
Urban counties such as Mobile are ready to revolt against the Legislature's despotism, which denies them local control. Citizens resent the way that legislative delegations dictate how local taxes may be raised and spent. These citizens want local officials to be able to protect communities from runaway growth and other threats. The present constitution denies such law-making power to counties. And across the state, a growing and diverse army of young new leaders is learning to work together for larger causes.