Politics Quote by H.W. Brands
““what white Southerners called “redemption” and others deemed simply the return to power of the Democrats, who sufficiently intimidated, cheated and otherwise discouraged Republicans, including most of the freedmen, that they counted for little in Southern politics. With any Democratic presidential nominee guaranteed the South, any Republican had to perform overwhelmingly in the North.””
About This Quote
Source Book: American Empire: The United States and the Global Order, 2019
Post‑Civil‑War Southern politics were dominated by Democratic “redemption,” which suppressed Republican and Black influence, making the South a reliably Democratic stronghold.
In simple terms: Democrats reclaimed Southern power, marginalizing Republicans and freedmen.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how power structures can marginalize groups.
Themes
politics
race
power
history
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- Southern elections
- civil‑rights advocacy
- political strategy
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
Electoral dominance
voter suppression
post‑war reconstruction
Questions to Reflect On
- How did “redemption” affect African‑American political participation?
- What mechanisms allowed Democrats to maintain control?
A Different Perspective
The South’s Democratic dominance was not inevitable; demographic shifts can alter it.
