For an overview of the “Dunning School” of historians, click below:
Notes Concerning the Author:
James Wilford Garner (1871-1938), a native of Mississippi, was of the “Dunning School” of historians who had studied under Professor William Archibald Dunning (1857-1922) of the Columbia University history department. In his professional career he was a Professor of Political Science. Dunning scholars were inspired to present political reconstruction on a State by State basis, in detail, with resolute attention to the facts of the case, allowing the reader to live the history and experience the political struggles to regain home rule. Noted Dunning School scholars and the States of which they wrote are: J. S. Reynold (SC); J. W. Garner (MS); Walter L. Fleming (AL); J. G. de Roulhac Hamilton (NC); C. Hildred Thompson (GA); C. W. Ramsdell (TX); Thomas Staples (AK); and W. W. Davis (FL).
Abstract
In Reconstruction in Mississippi, James Garner presents the history in a narrative, chronological style, thereby allowing the reader to live the history as if he or she were there. Adequate attention is given to all aspects of the story. You understand the corruption of government within Mississippi under the rule of the Republican Party, where white men from the conquering northern States and a few cooperative white Mississippians ruled over the destitute people of the State, empowered by the organized votes of newly emancipated black men. You see the graft in financial detail, complete with the heavy tax burden, the corrupt spending and the skyrocketing public debt. You see the political struggles, including the murders, the Kuklux activity and the strategies by Mississippi whites to regain home rule through a resurgent Democratic Party. The history climaxes with the landslide election of Democrats across the State in 1875.
Availability of this Book
This book is available as a paperback reprint and as a Google scanned e-book.
HRW