From 1876 through 1964, Arkansas voted for the Democratic party candidate for the president of the US. Why did Arkansas begin to vote for Republican Party candidates in the 1960s? Did this reflect a shift in the beliefs of political parties or the beliefs of most voters?

Arkansas's shift from consistently voting for Democratic candidates to supporting Republican candidates from the 1960s onwards was influenced by several factors, which reflect both changes in the political parties and the beliefs of voters.

1. Civil Rights Movement: The Democratic Party's embrace of civil rights legislation in the 1960s, particularly under Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson, alienated many white Southern voters, including those in Arkansas. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 were seen by some as a threat to the social order in the South, leading many to feel disillusioned with the Democratic Party.

2. Shift in Party Ideology: Over the decades, the Democratic Party's platform began to incorporate more progressive and liberal policies, particularly around social justice and civil rights. Conversely, the Republican Party began to appeal to conservative values, promoting issues such as states' rights, limited government, and traditional social values, which resonated with many voters in the South.

3. Economic Factors: The economic interests of many Arkansans also started aligning more with the Republican Party, especially as the GOP emphasized pro-business policies and free-market principles. As the South began to economically diversify, there was a growing appeal for Republican policies that emphasized economic growth.

4. Realignment of Southern Politics: The 1960s and beyond saw a significant realignment in Southern politics, where many traditional Democratic voters began to identify with the Republican Party. This was accelerated by the rise of influential Republican leaders in the South who effectively communicated Republican values and policies.

5. Candidate Appeal: Over the years, charismatic Republican candidates and their platforms began winning support in Arkansas. Leaders like Governor Winthrop Rockefeller, who was a moderate Republican, played a crucial role in reshaping the political landscape of Arkansas.

In summary, the shift in Arkansas from Democratic to Republican support in presidential elections was a complex interplay of changing party ideologies, the dissolution of the old Democratic coalition due to civil rights issues, and the emergence of a more conservative electorate that found resonance with the Republican platform. This transition reflected both a transformation within the parties themselves and evolving beliefs among Arkansas voters.