A Comparative Political Biography of Governors Zell Miller and James B. Hunt

Author

Bryan Joseph Mathison

Issuing Body

Mississippi State University

Advisor

Shaffer, Stephen D.

Committee Member

Chamberlain, James.

Committee Member

Merivaki, Thessalia.

Date of Degree

5-4-2018

Original embargo terms

MSU Only Indefinitely

Document Type

Graduate Thesis - Campus Access Only

Major

Political Science

Degree Name

Master of Arts

College

College of Arts and Sciences

Department

Department of Political Science and Public Administration

Abstract

I use a comparative political biographical approach to examine the lives and careers of two governors, Zell Miller and James B. Hunt. In so doing, I apply Shaffer’s theory of ideological realignment to two southern states by examining gubernatorial politics. I argue that these governors were electorally successful because they formed ideologically inclusive coalitions. I demonstrate that by forming ideologically inclusive coalitions that both governors experienced electoral successes. I examine those appeals through education, economic development, anti-crime, governmental efficiency and other issues. I seek to explain how Miller and Hunt’s life experiences shaped their respective political successes.

URI

https://hdl.handle.net/11668/16905

Recommended Citation

Mathison, Bryan Joseph, "A Comparative Political Biography of Governors Zell Miller and James B. Hunt" (2018). Theses and Dissertations. 54.
https://scholarsjunction.msstate.edu/td/54