Southern Strategy

Definition

The Southern Strategy was a political strategy employed by Richard Nixon and later adopted by other conservative politicians. It aimed to appeal to white voters in the southern states who were disillusioned with civil rights advances. It involved using coded language, divisive rhetoric, and focusing on issues like law and order to gain their support.

Related terms

Civil Rights Movement: A social movement advocating for equal rights for African Americans during the mid-20th century.

Segregation: The enforced separation of different racial groups, particularly prevalent in southern states prior to civil rights reforms.

Dog-whistle politics: Refers to using coded language or symbols that carry hidden meanings appealing to specific voter groups.