Oral History Interview with Harvey B. Gantt, January 6, 1986. Interview C-0008. Southern Oral History Program Collection (#4007).
Audio with Transcript
Listen Online with Text Transcript
(Requires QuickTime and JavaScript)
Transcript Only (39 p.)
HTML file
XML/TEI source file
Download Complete Audio File (MP3 format / ca. 136 MB, 01:14:43)
MP3
Abstract
Architect and politician Harvey Gantt describes his ascent from a childhood in segregated Charleston, South Carolina, to becoming the first black mayor of Charlotte, North Carolina. Along the way, Gantt led sit-ins in Charleston, integrated Clemson University, and became a successful architect in Charlotte. While he describes his career path, Gantt discusses civil rights in the American South. As a southerner, he sees the accomplishments of the civil rights movement as dramatic; as a member of the black middle class, he leans toward negotiation rather than revolt. After the movement's major successes, while northern activists were pushing for more change, Gantt sought to take advantage of his new opportunities. He sees his success both resulting from and contributing to civil rights for African Americans.
Excerpts
Growing up in an integrated neighborhood in Charleston
Leading sit-ins as a high school senior
Lunch counter sit-in sparked a citywide movement in Charleston
Gantt arrives at Iowa State University
Integrating Clemson University in 1963
Integrating Clemson University in 1963
Little difficulty for Gantt at Clemson
Fears of interracial dating at Clemson
Starting an architectural career in Charlotte
Black southerners see, and capitalize on, huge changes in the modern South
Explaining how white voters could support both him and Senator Jesse Helms
Entering politics on the Charlotte city council
Gantt's love for politics
Learn More
Finding aid to the Southern Oral History Program Collection
Database of all Southern Oral History Program Collection interviews
Subjects
North Carolina--Politics and government
Southern States--Race relations
African American politicians--North Carolina
The Southern Oral History Program transcripts presented here on
Documenting the American South undergo an editorial process to remove
transcription errors. Texts may differ from the original transcripts
held by the Southern Historical Collection.
Funding from the Institute for Museum and Library Services supported the electronic publication of this title.