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What you describe is true in the so-called Deep South, too, Cobby.
Everyone took Daddy's word as fact, and the local Good Old Boys' Network was very much in play.
Things changed!

That the old Democrats and present day ones do not resemble one another eludes many of those who do not look - or are not perceptive.

With the advent of television, however, and the Internet, it is easier to see the truth - or untruths - of individuals and party directions.
In the 30's through 50's, you seldom had personal contact with the Big Boys.
Now news and details about their efforts is within easy reach, no matter whether you are in a rural or city area.

On the whole, too, we are more confident in reaching our own conclusions, don't you think?
That, perhaps, is more applicable to today's women - when you and I were young and most women homemakers, they usually fell into step with what the males in their world thought.

Another factor is the mobility of families, seeking upward movement in jobs, or forced to move in specialized work.
Not only are they in areas where 'Daddy's Thoughts' are not relevant, but there is no familiar network to reinforce them.
Local factors heavily influence and shape their views.

Today, there is no excuse for not being informed, except for the old enemies - indifference and complacency.

As you ably point out, our responsibility is to provide quiet and nonconfrontational education so they can make more informed choices.

There is, however, a difference between the majority group of whites, and the minorities of Latinos and blacks.

Minorities need leaders within their communities for stability.
The leaders of the communities establish the political mores and trends which are passed to the heads of the households and to the families in general.
This custom is culturally ingrained in minorities.
That is what has always been so confusing to the white Republicans.
We don't need leaders to dictate to us how we should respond to any political idea; therefore, we neglect to utilize the opportunities to develop lasting relationships with these leaders, and we fail to provide them with the impetus to adopt our political philosophy.
The Democrats have been much more adept at this ploy than the Republicans have ever achieved.
That this is simply a manipulation does not enter into the thought process of the leaders.
When they are singled out to receive special benefits from the Democrats, it gives them "face" and prestige within their communities, and they respond by urging their followers to adopt the philosophy of the Democratic Party.

Our only recourse is to counter the Democratic effort with one of our own.
We don't have to pander to these leaders, but we have to recognize and acknowledge their position of leadership to their constituents.