Description
Book SynopsisDocuments the period when a handful of University of Alabama student activists formed an alliance with President Frank A. Rose, his staff, and a small group of progressive-minded professors in order to transform the university during a time of social and political turmoil. Together they engaged in a struggle against Governor George Wallace and a state legislature that reflected the worst aspects of racism.
Trade Review“Earl Tilford’s carefully researched and beautifully written account of the university during a time of transition and turmoil is a must read for Alabama alumni of any era.” —Dag Rowe, Class of 1969
""This is not the last word on Bama in the '60s, before cellphones, texting and the need for a 4.0 to get into law school retranquilized the student body, but for those who were there and for those who wish they were, it is required reading."" —
The Tuscaloosa News""Tilford’s is a balanced, thoughtful, indeed, objective assessment of that era. His ability to keep the story flowing into the transitional 1970s without advocacy or rancor, but with factual assessment, makes this a valuable book not only for alumni, but for those who want to see how a major institution changed into what it is today."" —
The Decatur Daily“The way Tilford weaves in social phenomena like fraternities, beauty pageants, football, and other student activities will find a ready audience among students of that era. The book will also appeal to the aging baby boomer population now looking back on that formative period of their lives, the 1960s. This book is a real page-turner.” —John David Briley, author of
Career in Crisis: Paul “Bear” Bryant and the
1971 Season of Change“Turning the Tide is essential reading for anyone who ever worked for, attended, or has been a fan or supporter of the University of Alabama. Then, too, anyone interested in the way changes in higher education foretold changes in contemporary society during the tumultuous 1960s will be fascinated by this book.” —Roger Sayers, former president of the University of Alabama
