The Southwestern Historical Quarterly, Volume 68, July 1964 - April, 1965 Page: 387
574 p. : ill., maps, ports. ; 23 cm.View a full description of this periodical.
Extracted Text
The following text was automatically extracted from the image on this page using optical character recognition software:
Book Reviews
dealing with the governorship. He explains how gubernatorial
power and influence really work.
The volume should go far toward dispelling the general lack
of knowledge and misunderstanding of the office of chief execu-
tive in Texas. The author makes it clear that although neither
so powerful nor so influential as governors in some of the other
states, he is more so than many students of government had
realized. As modern society increases in complexity the Texas
governor will probably become even more powerful, despite the
restrictive constitution of 1876 under which he must operate.
One of the many interesting sections of the book deals with
gubernatorial appointments. Gantt shows how they are actually
made and the part played by "senatorial courtesy" in the ap-
pointive process. He tells of the use of the veto power, which he
considers one of the most valuable means by which the governor
can control public policy. There are sections devoted to the gov-
ernor's use of special sessions of the legislature (second only to
the veto power in influence) and gubernatorial messages (fre-
quently used but of doubtful influence). The author shows that
appeals to the public can play a vital role in educating citizens of
the state concerning the chief executive's position on many im-
portant matters. The role of the governor as a political leader is
also assessed. In fact, all facets of the power and influence of the
Texas governor are examined.
Throughout the entire book the approach is primarily histori-
cal: for example, the treatment of outstanding gubernatorial cam-
paigns from Hogg to Connally. Future politicians might benefit
from the discussion of the various campaign techniques used.
Many charts and tables add to the work's value. The personal
data, in table form, of governors of Texas from 1876 to 1963
should serve as a convenient reference for future students.
This reviewer's only criticism of the book is the inclusion of
much general text book type material known to all who have
even a fair knowledge of state government. If the work is intended
for the general reader, the inclusion of this material is, of course,
justified. Persons who are more informed may want to scan those
parts before coming to the real "meat" of the chapters.
And let it be made clear that there is real "meat" in them.
The book should become a standard work for all students of387
Upcoming Pages
Here’s what’s next.
Search Inside
This issue can be searched. Note: Results may vary based on the legibility of text within the document.
Tools / Downloads
Get a copy of this page or view the extracted text.
Citing and Sharing
Basic information for referencing this web page. We also provide extended guidance on usage rights, references, copying or embedding.
Reference the current page of this Periodical.
Texas State Historical Association. The Southwestern Historical Quarterly, Volume 68, July 1964 - April, 1965, periodical, 1965; Austin, Texas. (https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth101198/m1/458/: accessed April 19, 2024), University of North Texas Libraries, The Portal to Texas History, https://texashistory.unt.edu; crediting Texas State Historical Association.