Heart of Dixie

Adam R. from Historical Methods comments on "the Heart of Dixie":

License plates you would think are nothing but simple pieces of metal that we slap on the back of our cars and be on our merry way. However, in Alabama at this time a controversy has risen up about the license plate that reads “Heart of Dixie” in which some say is nothing more than a confederate reminder that should be wiped clean. Today the slogan “Stars fall on Alabama” are the new and people friendly plates that Former Gov. Don Siegelman came up with. Some groups argue the fact that it is indeed a confederate symbol but however, why would you want to change the roots of your state? A black legislative: Rep. Alvin Holmes, suspects “The groups knew very well what they were doing in omitting the slogan from their plates, but wanted to do it quietly to avoid upsetting fans of ‘Heart of Dixie.’” Basically, the blacks are trying to appease the whites by staying on their side while at the same time try to rid the Dixie and draw more businesses to Alabama. As Holmes points out: "Many white industrialists have come to realize what a burden it has been to this state and what the racist image of this state has cost the state economically," said Holmes, who has been trying to pass legislation taking "Heart of Dixie" off Alabama tags.” However, Confederate advocates such as Olaf Childress of Silverhill: "They say everything we ... stand for will go by the way, and it seems to be going that way. But as long as I'm alive, they will hear from me," So the battle will continue to blossom over the Confederate advocates and the anti, in trying to rid or keep the state of Alabama in its Confederate heritage.

'Heart of Dixie' Gone From License Plates