Eugene Talmadge, upon becoming governor of Georgia, initiated a military-style takeover of the state's highway department. He defied court orders, declared martial law, and appointed his own allies to positions of power. This power grab was met with resistance, but Talmadge ultimately succeeded in consolidating his control.
Talmadge declared martial law and seized control of the highway department.
He defied court orders and appointed allies to key positions.
The federal government withheld funds until the situation was resolved.
Talmadge's actions were compared to those of a South American dictator.