Jacksonville: The Consolidation Story, from Civil Rights to the Jaguars

The Florida History and Culture Series

by James B. Crooks

In the 1950s and 60s Jacksonville faced daunting problems. The city government was criticized for being boss-ridden and corrupt, African Americans challenged racial segregation, the St. Johns River was heavily polluted, and downtown development had succumbed to suburban sprawl. In 1967 the city decided to consolidate with surrounding Duval County, transforming this conservative Deep South backwater city into a prosperous, mainstream metropolis. James Crooks introduces readers to preconsolidation Jacksonville and then focuses on three major issues that confronted the expanded racial relations, environmental pollution, and the revitalization of downtown. This urban history will fascinate scholars of politics and governmental reform as well as residents of the First Coast city. A volume in the Florida History and Culture Series, edited by Raymond Arsenault and Gary R. Mormino

296 pages, Hardcover

First published March 29, 2004