-
Kefauver Guides Youngsters on a Changing World

In 1957, Kefauver urged Young Democrats to stay involved and help shape the future of a world in turmoil. The topics he discussed -70 years ago – control of the Middle East, technology’s impact on American culture, the problem of too-powerful corporations – are just as relevant today as they were then.
-
Sing Along With Keef, Part 5: “The Man From Tennessee”

In 1952, an obscure North Carolina songwriter tried to launch himself to fame by writing a Kefauver campaign song. The song hit the big time… but the songwriter didn’t.
-
Can Kefauver Lead Us Out of the Culture War?

Today’s Democrats have a hard time speaking effectively on controversial cultural issues. They’d benefit from studying how Kefauver addressed the challenging issues of his era.
-
Another Ad Break: Kefauver for President Commercials, Part 2

Continuing from last week’s post, here’s a look at another set of ads from Kefauver’s 1956 campaign, and a look at what they did – and didn’t – say.
-
“Twentieth-Century Southerners”: Kefauver’s Bold Appeal on Civil Rights

During the 1956 campaign, Kefauver faced scrutiny from Southerners on civil rights. He responded with a courageous appeal to the South’s better angels. Read on to see how he did it.
-
Here Comes the Pitch: Kefauver for President Commercials, Part 1

During the 1956 campaign, Kefauver came into a bit of money, and used it to record a series of commercials. This week, we’re taking a look at some of those ads, and what they said about his campaign.
-
Stuck In the Middle With You: Dems’ Brief, Strange Experiment With Midterm Conventions

Republicans are thinking of holding a convention for this year’s midterms. Democrats tried that in the ’70s and ’80s… and it didn’t go so well.
-
Sing Along with Keef, Part 4: “Kefauver Is His Name”

What do Estes Kefauver, Perry Como, and Three’s Company have in common? Ray Charles! No, not that one.
-
Protesting Too Much? Kefauver on Congressional “Vaudeville Shows”

In 1948, Kefauver wrote an article decrying excessive Congressional travel and “headline-hunting hearings.” Did his later career make him a hypocrite?
-
Can We Recover the TVA Way?

At the TVA’s 20th anniversary, its former Chairman wrote a book explaining the mindset that made it possible. Have we lost that mindset for good?