History Book Club with James C. Clark, Ph.D: "Red Pepper and Gorgeous George" September 22, 2012

Learn about Florida’s vicious 1950 campaign for U.S. Senator that led to the defeat of incumbent Democrat Claude “Red” Pepper to conservative George Smathers – the first time in the history of the state that a sitting Senator had ever been voted out of office. By adapting McCarthy-like tactics, Smathers not only changed the political structure of the south that had reigned for nearly a century, his strategy also inspired other politicians’ campaigns including Richard Nixon and Barry Goldwater. The author of six books, Jim Clark has lived in Orlando since 1976 when he joined the Orlando Sentinel and in 2001 he became editor and later publisher of Orlando Magazine. Clark holds a doctorate in Florida history from the University of Florida, and has been a member of the history department at the University of Central Florida since 1987. Followed by book signing. Call (407) 836-7010 for reservations. Refreshments provided.