Assassination Attempt on George Wallace - May 15, 1972

On May 15, 1972, a significant event in American political history unfolded when Alabama Governor George Wallace was shot and paralyzed by Arthur Bremer while campaigning for the presidency in Laurel, Maryland.

Background

George Wallace was a prominent and controversial figure in American politics, known for his staunch pro-segregation stance during the Civil Rights Movement. He served as the Governor of Alabama and was a vocal advocate for states’ rights, often clashing with federal civil rights initiatives. By 1972, Wallace was making his fourth run for the presidency, this time as a Democratic candidate, having previously run as an independent in 1968.

The Incident

While campaigning at a shopping center in Laurel, Maryland, Wallace was delivering a speech to a crowd when Arthur Bremer, a 21-year-old from Milwaukee, approached him. Bremer fired five shots at Wallace, hitting him four times. The attack left Wallace critically injured and resulted in permanent paralysis from the waist down. Three other individuals, including a Secret Service agent, were also wounded in the shooting.

Arthur Bremer

Arthur Bremer was motivated by a desire for notoriety rather than political ideology. His diary, later published as “An Assassin’s Diary,” revealed his initial intent to target President Richard Nixon, but he found it too difficult to get close to the President. Bremer was apprehended at the scene and later convicted of attempted murder, receiving a 63-year prison sentence, of which he served 35 years before being released on parole in 2007.

Aftermath and Impact

The assassination attempt had profound effects on Wallace’s life and political career. Despite his injuries, Wallace continued his presidential campaign from his hospital bed, ultimately winning several Southern primaries. However, his campaign lost momentum, and he did not secure the Democratic nomination.

Wallace’s shooting also had broader implications for political security in the United States, leading to increased protection measures for presidential candidates. It highlighted the vulnerabilities of public figures and prompted discussions about gun control and mental health.

Historical Significance

George Wallace’s shooting marked a turning point in his political life, as he later expressed regret for his segregationist policies and sought reconciliation with civil rights leaders. The event underscored the volatile nature of American politics during the era and remains a significant moment in the history of political violence in the United States.