Sid McMath
From Wikinfo
Sidney Sanders McMath (1912-2003) was a Democratic Governor of the State of Arkansas.
Sidney 'Sid' McMath was born on 14 June 1912 in Columbia County, Arkansas.
McMath graduated from the University of Arkansas law school in 1936.
During World War II McMath served in the United States Marine Corps and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He took part in the battles of the Pacific Theater including the Battle of Bougainville. McMath won the Silver Star and the Legion of Merit.
When McMath returned from the war to Hot Springs, Arkansas he and other veterans became disenchanted with the political system and banded together to fight corruption in the city government.
McMath served as prosecuting attorney for Garland and Montgomery counties starting in 1947.
McMath was elected Governor of Arkansas in 1948 and entered office in early 1949. He was reelected in 1950.
McMath's administration focused on infrastructure improvement including new highways and roads and a medical center in the capital city. McMath supported anti-lynching statutes and appointed African-Americans to state boards. His administration improved the state's educational system. McMath also reformed the state's mental health system and increased the minimum wage.
McMath was defeated in the 1952 election. He ran unsuccessfully for the US Senate in 1954 and again for Governor in 1962.
He returned to the practice of law and was elected president of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers in 1976. He wrote a memoir entitled Promises Kept detailing both his years as governor and his military service. McMath remained active, speaking at Arkansas schools and events and supporting local organizations.
In a 1999 opinion poll of Arkansans McMath polled number four on the list of top Arkansas Governors of the 20th century.
Sidney Sanders McMath died on 5 October 2003 at his home in Little Rock, Arkansas. McMath had been released from the hospital the previous Wednesday after being treated for an irregular heartbeat.
Sid McMath Avenue in Little Rock is named for him.
