Why did the South switch parties?

[NerdyBohemian]

There were already cracks in the "Solid South" as early as 1928. The Great Depression and the ensuing large scale public works and investment in the South prevented it from happening sooner.

[NerdyBohemian]

^^^ Yes. Despite considering myself to be a progressive Democrat I hate that historical myth that the South suddenly became Republican in 1964 after the Civil Rights Act so we can feel better about ourselves. It was long and drawn out and could be seen before that. Hell in some cases today there is STILL support for local Democrats in very rural areas in the South. I think Alabama has a lot of white sheriffs in rural areas that are Democrats.