NRR Project: Huey Long and 'Every Man a King' (1934)

 

NRR Project: ‘Every Man a King’ speech

Given by Huey Long Feb. 23, 1934

The power of radio to inflame public opinion was never more ably demonstrated than by Huey Long. A politician from Louisiana, he had a dictatorial disposition, but he also believed in government support for the poor. This unique combination of elements ruled his thinking and his speech over the course of his truncated career.

On ascending to the governorship of Louisiana in 1928, and thence to the position of senator in 1932, he consistently pushed his “Share the Wealth” policy. He felt that it was unfair for the rich to hold all the wealth while poor people suffered. He advocated a minimum yearly wage for all, and intended to tax the “super-rich” to do it.

As you might guess, this made him popular with the common folk. Referred to as “The Kingfish,” after a conniving character on the Amos & Andy radio show, he used a folksy approach to ingratiate himself with the listener, presenting his concepts as evident, citing the Bible for example of the forgiveness of debts, and positing a nation in which everyone would have enough to eat and clothes to wear.

In the depths of the Depression, this kind of talk resonated. It might be thought that Long would be a fan of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s social programs, but Long declared these efforts insufficient, and began thinking about running for President as an independent candidate.

The “Every Man a King” speech was one that he gave often, rendered here on a half-hour broadcast via NBC. The whole nation could hear his thoughts and debate his ideas. Many in the establishment saw him as a dangerous populist, a destabilizing force.

In 1935, Long was assassinated. His coalition of followers soon fell apart, and Roosevelt was reelected. “Share the Wealth” was destined to be an unexplored concept.

The National Recording Registry Project tracks one writer’s expedition through all the recordings in the National Recording Registry in chronological order. Next up: I Want to Be a Cowboy’s Sweetheart.