Deaths on April 18

Terry Sanford, American lieutenant and politician, 65th Governor of North Carolina (b. 1917)

James Terry Sanford (August 20, 1917 – April 18, 1998) was a towering figure in North Carolina and American politics, serving as a distinguished lawyer, progressive governor, U.S. senator, and even a two-time presidential candidate. A lifelong member of the Democratic Party, Sanford left an indelible mark on his home state, particularly through his unwavering commitment to public education and his complex, yet ultimately progressive, stance on civil rights during a transformative era in the American South.

Born in Laurinburg, North Carolina, Sanford's early life demonstrated a commitment to service and leadership. He achieved the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, an early indicator of his dedication. After graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1939, he immediately entered public service as a special agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation. His call to duty continued during World War II, where he saw extensive combat in the European Theater, earning a battlefield commission for his bravery and leadership under fire. Following his courageous military service, Sanford returned to North Carolina, attending and graduating from the University of North Carolina School of Law. He embarked on a legal career in the late 1940s, a path that soon led him into the vibrant and challenging world of state politics.

A Transformative Governorship (1961–1965)

Sanford's tenure as the 65th Governor of North Carolina from 1961 to 1965 is widely considered one of the most impactful in the state's history. He was a fervent advocate for public education, believing it to be the bedrock of an enlightened society and a robust economy. As governor, he introduced a sweeping array of reforms and new programs aimed at elevating North Carolina's schools and institutions of higher education. This included significantly increasing funding for education at all levels, a move that was both ambitious and, for some, controversial. His commitment culminated in the establishment of the North Carolina Fund, a pioneering private, non-profit initiative dedicated to combating poverty through innovative, grassroots programs, which served as a national model for community development and social change.

Beyond education, Sanford demonstrated progressive leadership on civil rights, a particularly fraught issue in the American South during the early 1960s. While navigating the complex political landscape, he generally urged compliance with federal desegregation mandates, appointed African Americans to state boards and commissions—a notable step at the time—and fostered dialogue rather than outright defiance. This approach, though sometimes viewed as moderate by ardent civil rights activists, was progressive compared to many of his Southern gubernatorial contemporaries and helped North Carolina avoid some of the more violent confrontations seen elsewhere. However, his ambitious spending on social programs and education led to criticism from opponents, who labeled him a "tax-and-spend" liberal, a common charge leveled against those advocating for increased public investment.

National Aspirations and Academic Leadership

After his impactful governorship, Sanford continued to influence American life from various prominent positions. From 1969 to 1985, he served as the President of Duke University, transforming the institution during his long tenure. Under his leadership, Duke significantly enhanced its academic standing, expanded its global reach, and diversified its faculty and student body, cementing its reputation as a premier research university.

Sanford also twice sought the Democratic Party's nomination for President of the United States in the 1970s. Running in 1972 and 1976, he positioned himself as a progressive voice, often challenging the Democratic establishment and advocating for a more liberal agenda, though he ultimately did not secure the nomination.

Later in his career, Sanford returned to the political arena, successfully campaigning for a seat in the U.S. Senate. He represented North Carolina from 1986 to 1993, continuing his focus on education policy and advocating for issues he believed would improve the lives of his constituents and the nation.

Legacy

James Terry Sanford is widely remembered as one of the most significant public figures in the American South during the post-World War II era. His legacy is characterized by his relentless pursuit of educational excellence, his efforts to promote racial understanding and progress in a challenging environment, and his broader vision for a more inclusive and prosperous North Carolina. He embodied a generation of Southern leaders who sought to modernize the region while navigating profound social and political changes.

Frequently Asked Questions about Terry Sanford

What were James Terry Sanford’s most significant contributions as Governor of North Carolina?

As Governor, Sanford dramatically increased funding for public education, from kindergarten through higher education. He also established the groundbreaking North Carolina Fund, which pioneered anti-poverty initiatives, and demonstrated progressive leadership on civil rights by promoting compliance with federal mandates and making notable appointments for African Americans to state positions.

What was the North Carolina Fund?

The North Carolina Fund was a private, non-profit organization established by Governor Terry Sanford in 1963. It was designed to address poverty through innovative, experimental programs and community development efforts, serving as an early national model for comprehensive anti-poverty strategies.

How did Terry Sanford address civil rights during his governorship?

Sanford adopted a pragmatic yet progressive approach to civil rights. Rather than outright defiance, he urged North Carolinians to comply with federal desegregation laws and sought to foster dialogue. He appointed African Americans to state boards, a significant step in a Southern state at that time, helping to navigate the challenging era with a focus on avoiding violence and promoting gradual integration.

What was Terry Sanford's role at Duke University?

Terry Sanford served as the President of Duke University from 1969 to 1985. During his long tenure, he significantly strengthened the university's academic programs, expanded its research capabilities, and enhanced its national and international reputation.

Why was Sanford sometimes called a "tax-and-spend" liberal?

Sanford earned this label from opponents primarily due to his ambitious agenda, particularly his substantial increase in funding for public education and other social programs. These initiatives required new public investments and, consequently, increased taxes, leading to criticism from those who favored more limited government spending.