"The Jackson County Rebellion" A Populist Uprising in Depression-Era Oregon by Jeff LeLande

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This presentation explores the dramatic episode today known as the Jackson County Rebellion.  A populist insurgency that erupted during the darkest period of the Great Depression, this turbulent uprising received national attention as it played out in rural southwestern Oregon. Fanned by demagogues, the "anti-elite" populist fury led to social unrest, massive ballot theft, and violence.  The Medford Mail Tribune -- despite serious financial threats to its existence -- crusaded against the movement's extremism, winning a Pulitzer Prize for its effort.

Jeff LaLande is an archaeologist and historian.  He moved from Washington, DC, to Ashland, Oregon, in 1969, right after graduating from Georgetown University.  Later he earned an MA in archaeology from OSU and a PhD in American history from U of O.  He enjoyed a 30+-year career with the U.S. Forest Service and has worked as a consultant since "retirement."  LaLande has authored books and numerous articles on various historical topics and he teaches courses at Southern Oregon University's OLLI program   He lives in Talent, Oregon.