The Path to Recognition: Coal Miners, Their Unions and Coal Operators in Tennessee

The story of Tennessee coal mining from the 1830’s thru the 1930’s, focusing on the working conditions of miners and their families, the unions and companies involved and labor strife. While Tennessee coal miners were able to improve their condition through collective bargaining, progress was slow and inconsistent. With the passage of the National Industrial Recovery Act in 1933, wages and working conditions were permanently improved and the coal miners achieved union recognition without the violent coal strikes experienced in other areas of the country

Governor James K. Polk of Tennessee: An Administrative Appraisal

While James K. Polk’s administrative record as governor of Tennessee from 1839 to 1841 has been over shadowed by the more interesting partisan bickering of the era, his term in office saw continued legislative activity in the areas of banking, internal improvements and education. Throughout his single-term as governor, Polk was interested more in national affairs and was satisfied to correct abuses rather than to pursue new initiatives. He was active, however, in advancing ideas to get the state out from under the effects of the Panic of 1837. Polk adequately fulfilled his duties as governor but was not an outstanding governor. He primarily viewed the office as a stepping stone to higher office

The Congressional Campaigns of James K. Polk, 1824-1837

The purpose of this thesis is to expose the actions of James K. Polk in his efforts to obtain a seat in the national House of Representatives. The narrative answers this general question: just what did Polk do to gain his initial victory (1825), and in his subsequent successful bids for office. What tactics did he and his opponents use? Was Polk the best candidate, or was he just a better politician? Did issues or personalities influence the election result? If issues, were they local, state, or national in nature, or a combination? And did these issues change over the years, either in their nature or substance? This study covers Polk\u27s seven Congressional campaigns and since both issues and candidates changed from year to year, a comprehensive set of specific conclusions cannot be drawn. Polk, as illustrated throughout this thesis, adjusted his strategy to suit his various opponents and to changing issues. Characteristic of all his campaigns, however, were speeches and printed circular letters, extensive travels, frequent use of the newspapers, and even various underhanded schemes. Polk undoubtedly used his incumbent status to win votes. He granted political favors, performed services, and franked mail into his district. All extant election results are included in tabular form and the results of a census study of Polk\u27s district are revealed