Post War Georgia

Georgia Modernizes

• Georgia’s economy went through a large industrial boom after WW2.

• It shifted from a rural to an urban state as farm technology decreased jobs in agriculture and industrial centers grew.

A Change in Agriculture

• Cotton was Georgia’s main crop prior to World War Two.

• After the war Cotton prices dropped as new modern fabrics were invented.

• Row crops such as peanuts, corn, and soybean were grown instead.

• Poultry became a major source of income to Georgia’s farmers.

William Hartsfield

• Mayor of Atlanta longer than any other mayor (1937-1961)

• During his time in office Atlanta grew from 100,000 to 1,000,000 people.

• Promoted a racially diverse city as “The city too busy to hate.”

• Was instrumental in leading the city out of the Great Depression.

• Atlanta-Hartsfield Airport is named in his honor.

Ellis Arnall

• Defeated Eugene Talmadge to become Governor of GA 1943-1947.

• Worked to bring progressive reform to the state including restoring UGA’s reputation, reforming prisons and the state tax system.

• Was defeated by Talmadge for re-election.

Ivan Allen Jr.

• Mayor of Atlanta 1962-1970

• Removed segregation from Atlanta’s public places.

• Brought major sports franchises to Atlanta.

Atlanta’s Sports Teams• Atlanta gained a major league baseball

team, the Braves when it moved from Milwaukee in 1966.