Flashback Photos: Gov. Lester Maddox’s 1970 feud with the AJC

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Flashback Photos: Gov. Lester Maddox’s 1970 feud with the AJC

To say the controversial Georgia governor was peeved with our coverage would be an understatement.

Atlanta, Ga., March 10, 1971 - Georgia Lt. Gov. Lester Maddox burns a copy of The Atlanta Constitution Wednesday in the state Senate. Maddox, who presides over the body, was incensed at an article which accused the Senate of being in shambles with a huge backlog of legislation. He said the newspaper did not have to 'guts, integrity, manhood or decency' to report the situation accurately. Maddox drew a standing ovation as he concluded a fiery speech and the burning of the newspaper. (Bill Wilson/AJC) 1971

May 29, 1970 - Atlanta, Ga.: Governor Lester Maddox ordered a ban on Atlanta Journal-Constitution vending machines from the state office complex. Newsmen caught a ride as newspaper racks were moved by state aides. (Staff photo-Charles Bennett) 1970

May 29, 1970 - Atlanta, Ga.: Governor Lester Maddox ordered a ban on Atlanta Journal-Constitution vending machines from the state office complex. Gov. Maddox gets a helping hand in removing newspaper racks. He carried out his promise to remove the machines from state property. (Staff photo-Billy Downs) 1970

May 29, 1970 - Atlanta, Ga.: Governor Lester Maddox ordered a ban on Atlanta Journal-Constitution vending machines from the state office complex. Gov. Maddox gets a helping hand in removing newspaper racks. He carried out his promise to remove the machines from state property. (Staff photo-Billy Downs) 1970

May 29, 1970 - Atlanta, Ga.: Governor Lester Maddox ordered a ban on Atlanta Journal-Constitution vending machines from the state office complex. The governor helped carry racks to truck for movement to baseball. He has given the newspapers until nex week to claim the banished machines. (Billy Downs/AJC staff) 1970

June 5, 1970 - Atlanta, Ga. - Georgia Governor Lester Maddox and his wife picketting in front of the Atlanta Journal - Constitution building. (Staff photo-Joe McTyre) 1970

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