Albert Brewer, American politician, Governor of Alabama (1968-1971) (b. 1928)

Albert Preston Brewer (October 26, 1928 – January 2, 2017) was a prominent American politician and a significant figure in Alabama's political history. He served as the 47th Governor of Alabama from 1968 to 1971, a pivotal period of social and political transformation in the Southern United States. Born in Bethel Springs, Tennessee, Brewer's distinguished career was marked by a profound commitment to public service and an earnest effort to navigate Alabama through the complexities of the civil rights era and its aftermath.

Early Life and Rise to Governorship

Brewer earned his law degree from the esteemed University of Alabama School of Law, laying a robust foundation for his entry into public life. His political career commenced in the Alabama House of Representatives, where he served with distinction from 1954 to 1966. Recognizing his exceptional leadership abilities and legislative acumen, his peers elected him Speaker of the House from 1962 to 1966, a powerful and influential position. In 1967, he ascended to the office of Lieutenant Governor, serving alongside Governor Lurleen Wallace. Upon Governor Wallace's untimely passing in May 1968, Brewer constitutionally assumed the governorship, stepping into a role of immense responsibility during a tumultuous time for the state.

Governorship (1968-1971): A Focus on Reform and Modernization

As Alabama's 47th Governor, Albert P. Brewer is widely remembered for his earnest efforts to steer the state toward progress and moderation, often in stark contrast to the more confrontational stance of his predecessor, George C. Wallace. His administration prioritized key areas aimed at modernizing Alabama and improving the lives of its citizens:

• Education Reform: Governor Brewer championed significant educational improvements, including substantial increases in teachers' salaries and the strategic expansion of the Alabama Educational Television (AETV) network. AETV, now known as Alabama Public Television (APT), provided valuable educational resources to students and communities across the state, broadening access to learning.
• Economic Development: He actively pursued robust industrial recruitment and economic diversification initiatives. By attracting new businesses and industries, Brewer sought to modernize Alabama's economy, create new employment opportunities, and enhance the state's fiscal health.
• Judicial and Governmental Reform: Brewer was a vocal advocate for a new state constitution, believing it essential to streamline governance, enhance efficiency, and address long-standing systemic issues. While this ambitious initiative ultimately did not pass during his tenure, it underscored his commitment to fundamental governmental modernization. He also worked diligently to improve the state's judicial system.
• Racial Relations and Compliance: Operating within a deeply entrenched segregated political landscape, Brewer adopted a notably more measured and conciliatory approach to racial issues compared to many of his contemporaries. His administration subtly fostered an environment conducive to desegregation and worked towards compliance with federal mandates, aiming to avoid the overt defiance seen in earlier periods.

His efforts collectively aimed to project a more progressive and forward-looking image for Alabama on the national stage, subtly but firmly guiding the state beyond some of the entrenched politics of the past.

The 1970 Gubernatorial Election and Post-Governorship Contributions

Brewer sought a full term as governor in the intensely competitive and politically charged 1970 Democratic primary. He faced his powerful predecessor, George Wallace, in a bitter and divisive campaign that captivated the state. Ultimately, Wallace prevailed in the runoff election, an outcome often cited by historians as a pivotal moment that signaled a return to the populist, and often segregationist, rhetoric that had previously dominated Alabama politics. After his governorship concluded, Brewer returned to his distinguished legal practice. He continued to serve the state through various appointments and commissions, contributing his extensive expertise to public discourse and policy development until his passing on January 2, 2017, at the age of 88 in Montgomery, Alabama.

Legacy and Enduring Impact

Albert P. Brewer's legacy is profoundly characterized by his forward-thinking vision for a modern and more progressive Alabama. He is widely credited with initiating crucial reforms in education and economic policy that laid essential groundwork for the state's future development and growth. His governorship, though relatively brief, represented a significant and distinct shift towards a more moderate political path, demonstrating an alternative leadership style during a truly tumultuous period in Alabama's history. He is consistently remembered as a thoughtful, dedicated, and pragmatic public servant who tirelessly sought to improve the lives of all Alabamians through effective and responsible governance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Governor Albert P. Brewer

Who was Albert Preston Brewer?

Albert Preston Brewer was a distinguished American politician who served as the 47th Governor of Alabama, a position he held from 1968 to 1971. He also served as Lieutenant Governor and Speaker of the Alabama House of Representatives.

When did Albert Brewer serve as Governor of Alabama?

He served as the 47th Governor of Alabama from May 1968, when he assumed the office following the death of Governor Lurleen Wallace, until January 1971.

What were some key accomplishments of Governor Albert Brewer's administration?

His administration focused significantly on education reform, including substantial increases in teachers' salaries and the expansion of the Alabama Educational Television (AETV) network. He also prioritized economic development through industrial recruitment and advocated for governmental and judicial reforms, including a new state constitution.

How did Albert Brewer become Governor of Alabama?

Albert Brewer was serving as Lieutenant Governor when Governor Lurleen Wallace passed away in office in May 1968. According to the Alabama Constitution, he automatically succeeded her as governor to complete her unexpired term.

What was Albert Brewer's approach to civil rights and racial issues during his governorship?

While navigating the highly charged political climate of the late 1960s, Brewer adopted a more moderate and conciliatory approach to racial issues compared to his predecessors. He quietly worked towards compliance with federal desegregation mandates, aiming to present a more progressive image for the state and avoid overt confrontation.