Huey P. Long: The Kingfish Of Louisiana

(Lake Charles, Louisiana) - Huey Pierce Long was one of the most famous politicians in Louisiana’s history.

Born in 1893, he became governor of Louisiana in 1928 and later served as a U.S. senator.

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Known as “The Kingfish,” Long was both loved and feared for his bold ideas and powerful speeches.

A Champion for the Poor in Louisiana

Long grew up in a small town and saw how difficult life was for many families. When he became governor, he promised to help poor people by improving schools, roads, and hospitals. He started a program to give free textbooks to schoolchildren, making education more accessible to all.

Share Our Wealth In Louisiana

One of Long’s most famous ideas was the “Share Our Wealth” program. He believed that no one should be extremely rich while others were starving. His plan suggested limiting how much money a person could have and giving the extra to families in need. This idea made him very popular with poor people but angered many wealthy business owners.

A Powerful and Controversial Leader

Long was known for his strong leadership and his willingness to take on powerful politicians and businesses. Some people thought he was a hero, while others believed he had too much control. He often fought with other government officials and made many enemies.

Huey P. Long's Tragic End

In 1935, when Long was only 42 years old, he was shot inside the Louisiana State Capitol. The man who shot him was Dr. Carl Weiss, a local physician. Weiss was reportedly upset because Long was trying to remove his father-in-law, Judge Benjamin Pavy, from office. On the night of September 8, Weiss confronted Long in a hallway of the capitol building. Witnesses say Weiss pulled out a gun and fired at Long at close range, hitting him in the abdomen. Long’s bodyguards reacted immediately, shooting Weiss multiple times and killing him on the spot.

Long was rushed to the hospital, where doctors operated on him. At first, it seemed like he might survive, but complications set in. He died two days later on September 10, 1935. Some historians believe that the bullets from his bodyguards’ guns may have accidentally contributed to his fatal injuries. His death shocked the nation, and thousands of people attended his funeral.

Huey P. Long’s Legacy

Huey P. Long changed Louisiana forever. Many of his programs, like better roads and free schoolbooks, helped improve people’s lives. His bold ideas and strong personality make him one of the most unforgettable figures in American history.