9.1: Virginia Democrats For Eisenhower, 1952-1956

Scope and content:

Series 9.1 Virginia Democrats for Eisenhower, 1952-1956; .5 cu. ft. includes: correspondence; statements, notes and drafts of speeches; campaign organization materials; and printed materials and memorabilia. Subseries 9.1.1 Correspondence, 1952-1953, contains evidence of Powell's planning of radio programs; aid in precinct and block organization; correspondence with members of the media; and advice on Eisenhower television appearances. Documentation found here shows Powell's prescient awareness of the power of the then young television medium in political campaigns. His notes and drafts in other parts of this series demonstrate that he also was aware of the power of negative campaign advertising. By October 1952, Powell confesses that his involvement in the campaign allows him to practice law "only three or four hours per day."

Subseries 9.1.3 Notes and Drafts of Speeches contains mostly handwritten notes dealing with the 1953 general election in Richmond and surrounding counties, and with the 1956 Presidential Campaign. Logistics for a visit to Richmond by President Eisenhower are also found here. The subseries 9.1.6 Printed Materials contains campaign literature from both the 1952 and 1956 Presidential elections.

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