Constructing The System: The Development of Political Machinery at the University of Florida (1918-1976)

The University of Florida’s student government has one of the most powerful political machines in the United States. This political machine, known as “The System,” emerged in the early 20^th century and molded state politicians that defined modern Florida. Early student politics at the University of Florida provides insight into how Florida politicians learned politics and eventually enacted policy on a statewide scale. It also highlights the contentious nature of constructing a political machine as internal and external challenges led to transformations within structures of patronage.

As the University of Florida’s population grew to incorporate women and people of color, shifting demographics also necessitated change within the white male-dominated machine. This honor’s thesis seeks to examine the first fifty years of the System (1918-1976), internal and external challenges to its machine politics, and its transformation mediated by challenges and shifting demographics over time.

Project Responsibilities

Responsibilities in this project include conducting archival research at the George A. Smathers Special Collections, traveling to relevant archives, producing oral histories, reviewing existing literature on the System, and writing analysis.