Description: (Politician, Publisher)
Harry F. Byrd Sr. was a prominent American politician, newspaper publisher, and leader of the Democratic Party in Virginia. He served as Virginia's governor and later as a U.S. senator. Byrd led the conservative coalition and opposed liberal legislation during his time in office. He reorganized and modernized Virginia's government, creating a powerful political machine that controlled state politics. Byrd strongly opposed racial desegregation and played a key role in the massive resistance campaign that led to the closure of some public schools in Virginia. His influence also reached national politics, as he received votes in presidential elections despite never officially running.