The McNair-Flemming Years, Volume 2
A Public Record of Uncertain Times, New Brunswick 1930-1960
by James G. Long

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The McNair-Flemming Years Volume 2, explores the evolution away from text-heavy political advertising based on achievements, to an emphasis on the personality of leadership. In his last public speech before the 1952 election, Premier J.B. McNair said with confidence: "integrity and honesty will win for the Liberal Party," and he was wrong! The image of Premier Hugh John Flemming 1952-1960, was carefully monitored by political campaign manager Dalton Camp, speechwriter Kenneth Carson, and PC Party bagman Ewart Atkinson. Party propaganda and priority news cycle coverage for the new premier, were maintained by Michael Wardell, the editor/owner of Fredericton's Daily Gleaner newspaper and the monthly periodical Atlantic Advocate. While his predecessor was challenged with significant international events, the affable, outgoing Mr. Flemming could concentrate on local events, his obsession with building of the Beechwood Dam, and his own self-promotion. He governed over a period of substantially increased debt, while holding fast to the belief that the path to prosperity was through increased Federal financial support.

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James G. Long began his career in the resource industry in New Brunswick, Quebec, Alberta and British Columbia. Born in Fredericton, he holds degrees in geology and economics from the University of New Brunswick and the University of Calgary. He has been a resource consultant and founder of both public and private energy companies, and has written more than 100 specialized technical papers and reports. Detailed study to create The McNair-Flemming Years 1930-1960, includes regional history, biographies, public policy, business development and hyper-partisan politics. It explores long-standing government fiscal challenges created by lack of industry, seasonal employment, demands to solve social problems in a sparsely populated, largely rural society, and the growing dependence on the Federal treasury. The basis of restructuring the role of government, social, educational, and healthcare reform was met with varying success by Premiers J.B. McNair and H.J. Flemming. Their leadership extended throughout the depression era, rationing and blackout drills during WWII, German U-boats in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Coronation of a Young Queen, post-war reconstruction, modernization and economic growth in a culture rooted in the past and resistant to change.

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Contributors

Author

James G. Long