1889-1976
Minister and Politician

Early Ministry.

Gerald L. K. Smith was born in Wisconsin and ordained when he was eighteen in the denomination that modestly called itself the Christian Church. After successfully serving a series of churches in Indiana, he moved to Shreveport, Louisiana, in 1928 to give his ailing wife a better climate. There he led the largest church of his denomination in that state. Smith quickly recognized the usefulness of radio and developed a large local following with the broadcasting of his sermons, which focused on reform topics.

From Preaching to Politics.

In the early days of the Depression Smith began to attack the actions of important business leaders of Shreveport, including members of his own congregation. These people joined others in his church who charged that he was neglecting some of his pastoral responsibilities. The dissension in his church and his personal...