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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.

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

Finding aid to the Southern Oral History Program Collection

Database of all Southern Oral History Program Collection interviews

North Carolina--Politics and government

Southern States--Race relations

African American politicians--North Carolina