A Question of Justice: New South Governors and Education, 1968-1976

Acknowledgments

Acknowledgments Over the course of preparing this book, I have become indebted to so many people for the countless favors and invaluable aid they have provided me. The staffs of libraries at Auburn University, the University of South Carolina, Florida State University, and the South Caroliniana Library made research in their fine institutions a pleasure. Reference staff at the South Carolina State archives, the Florida State Archives, and especially the Alabama State Archives were worth their weight in gold, and I cannot thank them enough. A few people stood out. Norwood Kerr was a master at locating documents and chasing archival rabbits. John Hardin, Ken Tilley, and Rickie Brunner also deserve heartfelt thanks. David Coles, formerly of the Florida State Archives, provided similar aid. At the Modern Political Collection of the South Caroliniana Library Herb Hartsook was a lifesaver and worth his weight in Pittsburgh Pirate baseball memorabilia. He introduced me to the major figures in John West's world and more than a few essential archival sources. During my time at Auburn University, many people provided assistance . Jim Hansen and Larry Gerber in their capacity as chairmen of the Auburn History Department allowed me to jumble my teaching schedule to allow for extended research trips. I also want to thank Auburn's History Department for research funds and for providing an intellectual atmosphere conducive to scholarly pursuits. Friends and History Department colleagues such as Jim Ross, Steve Murray, Richard Starnes, Eric Tscheschlok, Gene Barnett, Sheri Shuck, Robert Vejnar, Dan Szechi, Joe Kicklighter, Jeff Frederick, and Scott Billingsley made the grad school experience tolerable and rewarding. My dear friends Robin Fabel and Donna Bohanan provided much-needed moral support and excellent conversation . Steve McFarland always had the same annoying but helpful question while I was writing: "Have you finished yet?" Wayne Flynt in his capacity as advisor and friend taught me more than I can ever thank him for. I viii Acknowledsments treasure his guidance, friendship, and faith in me. I also want to thank the three governors for allowing me to interview them. William Maloy at the University of West Florida, a former Askew aide, also allowed me an interview and has been very helpful in tracking down former Askew staff. The folks at the University of Alabama Press have been wonderful and patient in answering my numerous pesky questions about the publishing process. Finally, my love and gratitude go out to my parents, Gordon and Georgia Harvey; my lovely and supportive wife, Marie; and my sons, Preston and Hudson, for their love and affirmation. I hope they know that I could never be more proud of them. A QUESTION OF JUSTICE ...