Prequel: An American Fight Against Fascism

Philip Johnson and Alan Blackburn arrived in Louisiana in early 1935 and attempted to see Huey Long. This was difficult, as Long was always surrounded by troops and bodyguards. These men often physically assaulted reporters. One of the bodyguards, Joe Messina, faced a charge of assault with attempt to murder, after he severely beat a small-statured reporter who took a photo of Long. Johnson eventually got a meeting with Long’s secretary, but Long’s cohort viewed Johnson and Blackburn as useless to their cause.

Meanwhile, Long considered running for president the following year. At the same time, he was forcing through a state bill that would make it illegal for federal officials to exercise authority in Louisiana unless explicitly granted by the Constitution; this would further solidify Long’s power within the state.

On September 9, 1935, Long was shot while walking through the state capitol and later died of his wounds. More than 100,000 people attended his funeral. Many collapsed in despair, professing their loyalty and their anguish over Long’s death.

Obituaries noted that Long was a complex figure; while he met his campaign promises to build schools, hospitals, bridges and roads, these came at an unknown cost due to bribes and corruption.