1998 George Wallace, age 79 - One of the most controversial politicians in US history, died in Montgomery, Alabama. He was elected governor of Alabama in 1962 under an ultra-segregationist platform, promising his white followers, "Segregation now! Segregation tomorrow! Segregation forever!" In 1972, he was shot while campaigning during an outdoor rally in Laurel, Maryland. Three others were wounded, and Wallace was permanently paralysed from the waist down. During the 1980s, Wallace's politics shifted dramatically, especially in regard to race. In 1983, he was elected Alabama governor for the last time with the overwhelming support of African-American voters. Over the next four years, the man who had promised segregation forever made more African-American political appointments than any other figure in Alabama history I remember both sides of this man. He really opened a lot of eyes to racism on both sides during his hay-day. Quite remarkable.
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