Wow! Those are indeed interesting graphics. Thanks for posting!
I suggest Eisenhower because he was the first canidate with an 'R' next to his name make inroads into the South (Tx, LA, Fl (Stevenson split the vote, IMO)). Of course, it didn't hurt that Eisenhower was born in Texas.
From your voting maps, I'm surprised by Nixon's complete support in the South during his second run for office. I also agree with your 'wildcard' assumptions. Given Nixon's large popularity at the time, it's almost unbelievable that he was forced out of office, and for what?!
Kennedy, Carter, and Johnson, are reasons why the South turned against the Democratic party, and went Republican, IMO. Though mild by comparison with Democrats today, Kennedy was largely hated by southern voters at the time.
The South is still the "bible belt". In most instances it will vote for a candidate who most aligns with its principles, or is a native son/daughter, as opposed to NYC voting against its native son, Trump.
Interesting dynamics indeed.
Thanks.
This is a topic that comes up from time to time, and I’ve been a little off base with it over the years.
I may post that with small map graphics at some point. It would be nice to see them right next to each other on the screen.
It will require me to remake one of those graphics, that fell out. It was the 2012 one.
Didn’t want to take the time to edit and post that one map to my site at the time.