This book is an eloquent examination of one of the most important political questions of the last half-century. It explores whether the South, once the “Solid South” of the Democratic Party, has truly become a Republican stronghold. And if so, when, where, why, and how did this seismic change occur? Moreover, what are the implications for the U.S. body politic, and for the future of liberalism and conservatism in America? Painting Dixie Red is the first volume to grapple with these difficult yet critical questions. In this fascinating and timely collection, a distinguished group of scholars en ... More

This book is an eloquent examination of one of the most important political questions of the last half-century. It explores whether the South, once the “Solid South” of the Democratic Party, has truly become a Republican stronghold. And if so, when, where, why, and how did this seismic change occur? Moreover, what are the implications for the U.S. body politic, and for the future of liberalism and conservatism in America? Painting Dixie Red is the first volume to grapple with these difficult yet critical questions. In this fascinating and timely collection, a distinguished group of scholars engages in an enlightening debate. Some make the case that the South has become Republican, and some contend that it has not. Some outline the region's exceptionalism, and some reject the idea of regional distinctiveness. Some point to white backlash and discontent over civil rights as the root of political changes, and some cite color-blind factors. All offer invaluable insights into U.S. politics during these ultra-partisan times.