The Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History, pictured in 1994, is located on the west end of the Sweet Auburn historic district in Atlanta. The library offers reference and archival collections dedicated to African American culture and history. Courtesy of Archives Division, Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History, Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System The New Georgia Encyclopedia does not hold the copyright for this media resource and can neither grant nor deny permission to republish or reproduce the image online or in print.

The Battle of Chickamauga, the biggest battle ever fought in Georgia, took place on September 18-20, 1863, during the Civil War (1861-65). With 34,000 casualties, it is generally accepted as the second bloodiest engagement of the war; only the Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania, with 51,000 casualties, was deadlier. The campaign that brought the Union and Confederate armies to Chickamauga began in late June 1863, when the Union Army of the Cumberland under Major General William S.

The Battle of Resaca was fought during the Civil War on May 14-15, 1864, in Gordon County. Confederate general Joseph E. Johnston's troops were able to slow, but not halt, the progress of Union general William T. Sherman's forces into Georgia. Courtesy of Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division The New Georgia Encyclopedia does not hold the copyright for this media resource and can neither grant nor deny permission to republish or reproduce the image online or in print.

Big Bethel AME, on Auburn Avenue in Atlanta, is pictured circa 1975. Throughout its history, Big Bethel has been a pillar of the Sweet Auburn district., working to maintain the historical integrity of the neighborhood in addition to its ministries. Courtesy of Archives Division, Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History, Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System, Ann States Collection. The New Georgia Encyclopedia does not hold the copyright for this media resource and can neither grant nor deny permission to republish or reproduce the image online or in print.

A candidate’s family members and friends created the foundation of a campaign. Membership in social, civic, and religious organizations also offered access to would-be constituents and potential forums for political speechmaking. Perhaps most crucial was securing the backing of small-town political power brokers—figures who could use their influence to mobilize and deliver votes in small, rural counties. Bill Burson, pictured sitting above, traveled across the state with his family in a station wagon during his 1970 state treasurer campaign.