George Wallace, 79, passed away on September 13, 1998, in Montgomery, Alabama. A former governor of Alabama, Wallace was a major figure in 20th century American politics. A Democrat, Wallace had strong popular support, due to his powerful rhetoric which often roused the emotions of his followers. His popularity was evidenced twice when he ran as an Independent candidate for President of the United States and garnered heavy support in his home state. Wallace was Governor of Alabama from 1963 to 1987, but his political career began in the late 1940s in the Alabama state legislature. During his tenure as governor, Wallace orated his famed “Segregation today, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever” speech in 1963. He is considered the original champion of “state’s rights” movement in the United States. Wallace was shot and crippled during a presidential campaign rally in 1972, and he experienced a spiritual conversion during the time of his recovery. He recanted much of his earlier segregationist stances and slowly moved towards more conciliatory policies throughout the rest of his political career. He will be remembered for his major impact on the national political landscape in the latter half of the 20th century.