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 CHAPTER VIII

RADICAL MUNICIPAL ADMINISTRATION

The "carnival of crime and corruption" described in the preceding chapter was not confined to the Legislature. Similar scenes were enacted in almost every county and city in the State. As the suffrage limitations placed upon the ex-Confederates applied to all elections, the Radicals were in complete control of these local governments. The large municipalities, such as Memphis, Nashville, Chattanooga, and Knoxville were the greatest sufferers from the rule of irresponsible and corrupt officials.

In 1867, a carpetbagger, by the name of Alden, had succeeded in being elected Mayor of Nashville. Having filled the city council with his political followers, most of whom were non-property-holders, he entered upon a course of open and systematic public plunder, which made even the State administration stand aghast. The city treasury was soon drained. The tax rate was enormously increased; but as this did not suffice, checks, warrants, and due bills, made out in the name of the city, and payable to bearer, were sold to street shavers of notes at any price they could bring. Bonds were also issued. As these evidences of indebtedness multiplied, the market quotations for them declined.

In the face of this wholesale corruption, Alden and his associates were re-elected. It now became evident that, unless some heroic measure was resorted to, the entire property of the city would be confiscated by their rapacity. A tax-payers association was formed, which began a campaign of public agitation. Public meetings were held in