February 13, 2007

Upon graduating from the University of Arkansas (UA) in Fayetteville (Washington County) with a law degree, Tom Terral established a private law practice and taught school. Becoming active in Democratic politics, he was elected secretary of state in 1916. He was elected governor in 1924 due in part to his joining the Ku Klux Klan (KKK) to gain votes. During his term, Petit Jean State Park was opened, construction was begun on the Arkansas State Hospital, and the post of Commissioner of Insurance and Revenue was created. Being defeated in his bid for reelection in 1926, he retired from politics.