Positive:
* Charismatic: Talmadge was a gifted orator and popular figure who connected with many Georgians.
* Strong-willed: He was known for his determination and unwavering commitment to his beliefs.
* Champion of the common man: Some see him as a defender of rural, white Georgians against perceived threats from urban and federal interests.
* Popular: He won numerous elections, demonstrating his appeal to a significant portion of the electorate.
* Defender of Southern values: He was a staunch supporter of segregation and other traditional Southern beliefs.
Negative:
* Racist: Talmadge's staunch segregationist views, including his opposition to integration and his support for white supremacy, are widely considered racist.
* Bigoted: He held prejudiced views against minorities and other groups beyond race.
* Demagogue: Some see him as a manipulative politician who exploited racial fears and prejudices for political gain.
* Authoritarian: His aggressive tactics and disregard for opposing viewpoints could be seen as authoritarian.
* Anti-intellectual: He was critical of higher education and government programs perceived as elitist.
* Corrupt: Some allegations of corruption and ethical misconduct have been made against him.
Neutral:
* Traditionalist: He was a strong advocate for maintaining traditional Southern ways of life.
* Populist: He appealed to the "common man" and presented himself as a defender of their interests against elites.
* Controversial: His legacy is highly debated, and his actions and beliefs remain a subject of controversy.
Ultimately, the words used to describe Eugene Talmadge depend on the perspective and values of the individual. He was a complex and contradictory figure whose impact on Georgia remains a topic of debate and discussion.