The Bourbon Triumvirate was a political alliance in the late 19th century in the United States, specifically in Georgia. It consisted of three prominent Democratic politicians: Joseph E. Brown, Alfred H. Colquitt, and John B. Gordon. They dominated Georgia politics from the 1870s to the 1890s and were instrumental in shaping the state's post-Civil War policies.
Goals of the Bourbon Triumvirate:
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Reconstruction and Redemption: The Bourbon Triumvirate sought to restore white Democratic control over Georgia and the South, reversing the changes brought about by Reconstruction. They aimed to dismantle Republican governance and re-establish a status quo that favored white supremacy and the interests of the wealthy.
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Economic Development: The triumvirate advocated for economic development, focusing on the expansion of railroads, agriculture, and the promotion of industry in Georgia. They believed that modernizing the economy would help the state recover from the devastation of the Civil War and improve the overall welfare of its white citizens.
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White Supremacy: A core component of their agenda was the maintenance of white supremacy and the disenfranchisement of African Americans. They supported Jim Crow laws and other measures that upheld racial segregation and limited the rights of black individuals in the South.
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Political Stability: The Bourbon Triumvirate aimed to establish a sense of political stability by curbing any radical elements and restoring what they viewed as a more traditional Southern social order. They sought to unite white voters under the Democratic Party to maintain control over state politics.
In summary, the Bourbon Triumvirate's goals were centered on restoring white Democratic control, promoting economic growth, enforcing racial segregation, and ensuring political stability in post-Reconstruction Georgia. Their influence was a key aspect of the political landscape in the South during this period.
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