Georgia Political Crisis of 1946

Eugene Talmadge's death in 1946 led to a political crisis in Georgia, as he had just won the election for governor. The state's constitution was unclear on succession, leading to a conflict known as the 'Three Governors Controversy.' Talmadge's son, Herman, and others claimed the governorship, resulting in a chaotic political struggle. The Georgia Supreme Court eventually resolved the crisis, appointing Melvin Thompson as acting governor. Despite the turmoil, the crisis ended with a peaceful transition of power, highlighting the resilience of democratic processes.

What event triggered the political crisis in Georgia in 1946?

• The death of Eugene Talmadge

• A natural disaster

• A financial scandal

• A foreign invasion

Which group primarily supported Eugene Talmadge during his political career?

• Business elites

• Rural white voters

• Urban voters

• African American voters

What was a key feature of Georgia's electoral system that benefited Talmadge?

• Direct popular vote

• Ranked choice voting

• County unit system

• Proportional representation

What health issue did Eugene Talmadge face before the 1946 election?

• Diabetes

• Pneumonia

• Heart attack

• Stomach hemorrhages

Who was elected as Georgia's first lieutenant governor in 1945?

• Herman Talmadge

• Ellis Arnall

• Melvin Thompson

• James Carmichael

What was the outcome of the legislative session on January 14th?

• The session ended without a decision

• Melvin Thompson was declared governor

• Herman Talmadge was declared governor

• Ellis Arnall was declared governor

What did the Georgia Supreme Court decide regarding the governorship?

• Melvin Thompson should be acting governor

• Ellis Arnall should remain governor

• Herman Talmadge should remain governor

• A new election should be held immediately

What was a significant outcome of the 1946 election for the Democratic Party in Georgia?

• A split in the party

• A setback for the progressive wing

• A victory for the progressive wing

• A shift to Republican dominance

What lesson can be learned from the resolution of the three governors crisis?

• Violence is necessary for political change

• Constitutional clarity is unimportant

• Peaceful resolution is possible even in contested elections

• Political crises always lead to chaos

Who eventually became governor of Georgia in 1948?

• James Carmichael

• Herman Talmadge

• Melvin Thompson

• Ellis Arnall