Abstract
William Alexander Blount achieved many milestones during his illustrious career as an attorney in Pensacola, Florida. He began practicing law soon after receiving his degree from the University of Georgia in 1873. His exceptional legal mind, strong dedication to his work, and impeccable character soon won him a statewide reputation in the legal profession and attracted a large clientele. Among his corporate retainers was the Louisville and Nashville Railroad (L&N). In 1909, after thirty-five years of practicing law, Blount opted for a chance at a political career and announced himself as a Democratic candidate for the United States Senate. In keeping with the political climate of the Progressive era, and seemingly his own political convictions, Blount ran on a progressive platform calling for reforms. Victory in his quest for the Senate narrowly eluded him, however, largely because his opponent convinced enough voters that during his long association with the L&N, despite his denials to the contrary, he had become a tool of corporate interests.
Recommended Citation
Pearce, George F.
(1984)
""Laying the Sins of the L & N At Mr. Blount's Feet": William Alexander Blount's U. S. Senatorial Campaign, 1910-1911,"
Florida Historical Quarterly: Vol. 63:
No.
1, Article 3.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/fhq/vol63/iss1/3
