Tom Watson

Focusing on the life of an influential yet controversial figure, this biographical study delves into Thomas E. Watson's journey from a slave-owning family to a prominent Populist leader. Elected to Congress in 1890, Watson initially championed the interests of southern farmers and the Populist movement, advocating for an interracial alliance against industrial capitalism. However, his political frustrations led to a troubling shift towards racial bigotry. C. Vann Woodward provides an insightful and objective exploration of Watson's complex legacy.