Huey Long
Louisiana governer Huey Long is a looming figure in American popular culture. Long made many enemies along the road from Govenor to Presidential candidate. He is the inspiration for the main characters in the Sinclair Lewis novel <em>It Can't Happen Here</em> and Robert Penn Warren's <em>All The King's Men</em>. Warren's novel has been adapted to film twice, the 2006 version starring Sean Penn.
Ken Burns interviews Long's peers as well as contemporary historians, journalists, politicians to explore the complicated narrative surrounding Long's life and political legacy. This 1986 documentary marks the first time Burns focused on a historical figure and politician. Burns gives viewers all the facts and opinions to decide for themselves whether Long's legacy was that of two-faced politician or man of the people.
October 15, 1986
Cast:
Huey Long, Russell Long, Arthur Schlesinger Jr., Robert Penn Warren, David McCullough
Ken Burns
Producer:
Ken Burns, Richard Kilberg
Written by:
Geoffrey C. Ward
Distributor:
Florentine Films, RKB