Story of the Session of the California Legislature of 1909

"Story of the Session of the California Legislature of 1909" by Franklin Hichborn is a historical snapshot of California's political scene in 1909, shining a light on a year marked by power struggles and legislative deadlock; it explores the push and pull between reformers striving for change and established political forces resisting it. Examining key issues, such as measures about gambling, primary elections, and railroad oversight, the book uncovers the forces that shaped key legislative battles and the political landscape. The book opens with the realization that even with reform-minded people in charge, the well-oiled machine still held considerable influence. In essence, this book sets up the key players and the political ground rules for understanding how California was governed at the time.