News & Analysis
New book on Jack Ruby offers insights into his life and events after JFK assassination
R.J. Morgan, a member of the Overby Center panel of experts, reviews Danny Fingeroth’s new book, Jack Ruby: The Many Faces of Oswald’s Assassin.
Marty Stuart and the pilgrim’s spot: Philadelphia, Mississippi
Country music icon Marty Stuart along with the Philadelphia Arts Council restored the Ellis Theater in Philadelphia, Miss., to establish the Marty Stuart’s Congress of Country Music.
Wild presidential elections and memories of 1968
Curtis Wilkie, the inaugural fellow of the Overby Center, discusses the presidential race in 1968 filled with political division and incidents of violence. He compares the race to this year's presidential race as well as offering details of the events that led to the Democratic presidential nomination of Vice President Hubert Humphrey.
McHam Students Recall His Teaching and Influence
The following is a collection of quotes and anecdotes from students of David McHam. For 54 years at four Texas universities, David McHam hammered into students’ heads lessons in succeeding in journalism.
The McHam Experience Changed Journalism And the Lives of Countless Journalists
For 54 years at four Texas universities, David McHam hammered into students’ heads lessons in succeeding in journalism. His teaching created a cult-like following among his students and gave them a head start on a career, primarily in print journalism.
New Criswell biography offers praise for spiritual leadership, but is candid about flaws
Few people were more influential in Dallas in the last half of the 20th Century than the Rev. Dr. W.A. Criswell. As pastor of First Baptist Church Dallas from 1944 until 1994, he was among pioneers of the megachurch concept, served as president of the Southern Baptist Convention, and was a leader in the conservative shift of Southern Baptists, both theologically and politically.
History provides the recipe for Democrats in Mississippi
In Mississippi, more than any other state, the margin of victory is often decided by who decides to cast a ballot. Charles Mitchell looks back on the 1987 race for governor between Ray Mabus and Jack Reed Sr. He compares it to this year’s top of the ticket features incumbent Republican Tate Reeves and Democrat Brandon Presley.
Trying To Live the Truth in a Polarized Society
The Rev. John Perkins, a Bible teacher, author and community developer, celebrated his 93rd birthday two years in West Jackson. On September 19, 2023, the Perkins Foundation hosted a gala at the Civil Rights Museum to celebrate 63 years of service by John and his wife, Vera Mae.
George McElroy made history by believing in the power of journalism
George McElroy made history as a Black journalist, professor, and extraordinary mentor to young journalists.