Tap 'er Light: Mike Mansfield's Gentle Leadership and Political Civility

Mike Mansfield was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1942 and served five terms as representative of Montana’s 1st District. In 1952, he was elected to the U.S. Senate, and in 1961 became Senate Majority Leader. He held that position until he retired from the Senate in 1977--longer than any other Majority Leader in the history of the U.S. Senate.

This exhibit explores two aspects of Mansfield's legislative career: his opposition to the Vietnam War (1955-1975) and his work to galvanize support for and passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Both events illustrate his respect for the office of the U.S. president, and his willingness to cultivate bi-partisan relationships.

Most of the material featured in this exhibit is from the Mike Mansfield Papers, Mss 065 held by Archives and Special Collections, Mansfield Library, University of Montana-Missoula. Special thanks to the U.S. Senate Historical Office for granting permission to use several photos from their collection in this exhibit.