Strom had many negatives in his life; but he's also one of the few repbulicans I can think of to garner more then 30% of the African-American vote in his state.
He will long be remembered as a distinguished WWII Veteran, and for his ability to change his views.
His career will long be marred by his early views regarding segregation, but he should also be remembered as the first senator to employ an African American amongst his staff, and a senator honored by many Black Colleges in the south for his works in regards of school funds.
http://www.thestate.com/mld/thestate/4674588.htm
And, while it is often forgotten, even in his early career, he enacted some important legislation in South Carolina that prevented obstacles againsts voting by African Americans and poor whites, by removing the poll tax within his state.
Strom had much wrong with his life; but did much right. There is always a chance for people to find their way and change.. I seriously doubt when Sen. Robert Byrd dies, many will decry his time served as head of the Klu Klux Klan. While it will in no doubt harm how he is evaluated historically; what is telling about persons like Strom and Byrd is that they, through time, managed to re-evaluate their views rather then to continue to live them.
. Think of the stories that are going to the grave with that guy... It must have been a fascinating life, albeit not one I would care to be remembered for.
