Eugene "Bull" Connor: The Controversial Figure In Civil Rights History

The legacy of Eugene "Bull" Connor, a name synonymous with the turbulent civil rights movement of the 1960s, evokes strong emotions and diverse opinions. Born on July 11, 1897, in Selma, Alabama, Connor rose to prominence as Birmingham's public safety commissioner, a position he held during a time of intense racial conflict. His actions and policies during this era, particularly in opposition to the civil rights movement, made him a contentious figure. Understanding Connor's life and impact is crucial for anyone interested in the history of civil rights in America.

Who Was Eugene "Bull" Connor?

Eugene "Bull" Connor was a radio sportscaster before entering state politics and became Birmingham's public safety commissioner in 1937. With the growing civil rights movement of the 1950s and '60s, Connor maintained racist policies that culminated in the jailing and televised water-hosing of peaceful protesters. He died in Birmingham on March 10, 1973.

Background

Theophilus Eugene Connor was born on July 11, 1897, in Selma, Alabama. His mother died when he was a child, and he lived with relatives or traveled extensively across the United States with his father, Hugh, a railroad dispatcher and telegrapher. Although Connor never finished high school, he learned his father's trade and later received the nickname "Bull" from friends inspired by a cartoon character.

Becomes Commissioner

In 1920, Connor married Beara Levin, and they had a daughter before moving to Birmingham. Connor worked various jobs before gaining recognition as a radio sports personality. He later transitioned into politics, serving on the Alabama state legislature in the mid-1930s. In 1937, he became the city's public safety commissioner, winning multiple reelections throughout the 1940s and running unsuccessfully for the governorship.

Despite facing charges of law enforcement and marital improprieties that temporarily removed him from office, Connor was re-elected in the late 1950s and early '60s. His long tenure reflected both his popularity and the controversial nature of his policies.

Racist Ideologies

As a Southern Democrat, Connor was a staunch proponent of racist social policies and became a recurring national convention delegate. He participated in the 1948 convention, where he walked out in protest against civil rights platforms, aligning himself with the Dixiecrat movement. His public comments were often filled with vitriol, earning him a reputation as a prominent opponent of the civil rights movement.

Connor's refusal to provide police protection for the Freedom Riders in 1961 was a defining moment, as he allowed violence to erupt upon their arrival in Birmingham. Additionally, he faced pressure from community and human rights groups to stop racially motivated bombings, which remained unsolved during his tenure.

Orders Attacks

Despite his repeated electoral victories, Connor's stance against civil rights led to significant backlash. In 1962, efforts to change the city government's structure succeeded in ousting him, but he countersued to retain his power. This period marked a turning point in Birmingham's civil rights struggle.

During the 1963 spring campaign to end segregation, Connor ordered authorities to attack peaceful student protesters with water hoses and police dogs. The brutal images broadcasted worldwide became pivotal in the civil rights movement, ultimately accelerating integration in Birmingham and influencing federal legislation like the 1964 Civil Rights Act.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. documented these events in his book Why We Can't Wait, which includes his famous "Letter From Birmingham Jail." Such narratives highlight the significance of Connor's actions in shaping the civil rights movement.

Death

Connor's political career faced another setback when he was forced out of office by the state supreme court in May 1973. Despite this, he was elected to the public service commission, where he served a second term. He passed away on March 10, 1973, in Birmingham after suffering a stroke, leaving behind a complex legacy intertwined with the civil rights movement.

Quick Facts

• Name: Eugene Connor
• Birth Year: 1897
• Birth Date: July 11, 1897
• Birth State: Alabama
• Birth City: Selma
• Birth Country: United States
• Gender: Male
• Best Known For: Birmingham public safety commissioner whose ideologies opposed the civil rights movement.
• Industries: U.S. Politics, Radio
• Astrological Sign: Cancer
• Death Year: 1973
• Death Date: March 10, 1973
• Death State: Alabama
• Death City: Birmingham
• Death Country: United States

Understanding the life of Eugene "Bull" Connor is essential for grasping the complexities of the civil rights movement in America. His actions, while controversial, were pivotal in shaping public opinion and accelerating change during a time of great injustice.