Populist politician’s impact still felt after 90 years
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Huey Long’s assassination nearly 90 years ago marked the end of a remarkable political career, yet his influence continues to resonate in American politics. The Louisiana Democrat, known for his populist approach and criticism of big business, became a legendary figure while serving as both governor and senator, even considering an independent presidential campaign that challenged Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Democratic establishment.
Despite extensive literature about the “Kingfish” – a nickname Long chose because he considered himself “a small fish here in Washington” but “the Kingfish to the folks down in Louisiana” – Chicago attorney Thomas E. Patterson offers fresh insights in his new book, “American Populist: Huey Long of Louisiana.” The work stands alongside notable historical accounts like T. Harry Williams’s Pulitzer Prize-winning biography and Richard White’s comprehensive study, adding new dimensions to Long’s complex legacy.
Patterson’s work aims to correct what he sees as academic misconceptions about Long. While acknowledging Long’s widely recognized brilliance, Patterson confronts the prevalent view of Long as a corrupt, intolerant figure who might have become a fascist dictator had he challenged Roosevelt successfully.
Protestant Huey Long: "Every man a Pope!" pic.twitter.com/Up17MYvPWQ
— Marcos Jude (@MarquisRhiz) February 28, 2025
Born in 1893 in modest circumstances in Winnfield, Louisiana, Long’s early life on a family farm shaped his future perspective. Though his family managed to improve their circumstances through land sales to lumber companies, they remained far removed from Louisiana’s ruling class of planters and business elite.
Long’s childhood personality foreshadowed his adult character. His voracious reading habits included Shakespeare, Dickens, and historical biographies, while his temperament combined curiosity and intelligence with a tendency to challenge authority. His particular admiration for Renaissance artist Benvenuto Cellini, whom he dubbed “the greatest man who ever lived,” revealed his appreciation for bold, unconventional figures.
Financial constraints prevented Long from accepting a scholarship to Louisiana State University, leading him instead through various educational attempts before finally completing his law degree at Tulane University Law School in 1915, supported by his brother Julius after his marriage to Rose McConnell.
Patterson’s analysis reveals Long’s inherent salesmanship as a defining characteristic of his political career. His ability to read audiences, combine educated appeals with folksy charm, and maintain an overwhelming presence helped secure his base in Louisiana, leading to his successful campaigns for governor in 1928 and senator in 1932.
This is the bullet hole from when Huey Long got shot at the LA state capital in Baton Rouge. pic.twitter.com/OzldY4HgOA
— Billy 🚜 (@tractor_owner) May 31, 2023
The book provides a detailed examination of Long’s complex relationship with Roosevelt, challenging traditional narratives. Patterson portrays Long as more decisive and hands-on compared to Roosevelt, whom he describes as heavily dependent on advisors. The fundamental differences between the two leaders stemmed from their contrasting approaches to governmental control and leadership style.
Patterson particularly challenges the common characterization of Long as a potential fascist, noting his consistent opposition to Hitler, Mussolini, and anti-Semitism. He argues that Long’s political ambitions, while significant, focused on achievable domestic reforms rather than authoritarian control.
The author concludes by examining Long’s enduring influence on American politics, drawing parallels to subsequent political figures. From Harry Truman to Ronald Reagan’s campaign strategies, and even Donald Trump’s media approach, elements of Long’s political style continue to shape American political discourse, suggesting that the “Kingfish’s” legacy remains relevant in contemporary politics.
