Martha Goodwin Tunstall: A Forgotten Conservative Icon

Martha Goodwin Tunstall, a name that might not ring a bell for many, was a trailblazing conservative figure in the early 20th century, who stood firm in her beliefs and challenged the status quo. Born in 1880 in the heart of Texas, Tunstall was a force to be reckoned with, advocating for traditional values and limited government at a time when progressivism was on the rise. Her influence was felt across the political landscape, particularly during the 1920s, as she championed causes that resonated with the conservative base. Despite her significant contributions, her legacy has been largely overshadowed by the liberal rewriting of history, which often sidelines conservative figures who don't fit the narrative.

Tunstall was a staunch advocate for states' rights, a principle that has been a cornerstone of conservative ideology. She believed that the federal government should have limited power, allowing states to govern themselves and make decisions that best suited their populations. This belief was rooted in the idea that local governments are more in tune with the needs of their citizens than a distant federal bureaucracy. Her advocacy for states' rights was a direct challenge to the growing power of the federal government, which she saw as a threat to individual liberties and freedoms.

In addition to her advocacy for states' rights, Tunstall was a vocal opponent of the progressive tax system, which she argued was a form of government overreach that punished success and stifled economic growth. She believed in a flat tax system, where everyone paid the same percentage of their income, regardless of how much they earned. This, she argued, was the fairest way to tax citizens and would encourage economic growth by allowing individuals to keep more of their hard-earned money.

Tunstall was also a strong supporter of the Second Amendment, believing that the right to bear arms was essential to maintaining individual freedom and protecting against tyranny. She argued that disarming law-abiding citizens would only embolden criminals and make society less safe. Her views on gun rights were considered radical at the time, but they have since become a central tenet of conservative ideology.

Her commitment to conservative principles extended to her views on education. Tunstall was a proponent of school choice, arguing that parents should have the right to choose where their children are educated, rather than being forced into a one-size-fits-all public school system. She believed that competition among schools would lead to higher quality education and better outcomes for students.

Despite her significant contributions to conservative thought, Tunstall's legacy has been largely ignored by mainstream historians. This is likely due to the fact that her views do not align with the progressive narrative that dominates much of academia and the media. By sidelining figures like Tunstall, the liberal establishment can continue to push their agenda without acknowledging the rich history of conservative thought in America.

Martha Goodwin Tunstall's life and work serve as a reminder that conservative principles have deep roots in American history. Her advocacy for states' rights, a fair tax system, gun rights, and school choice are all issues that continue to resonate with conservatives today. By remembering and celebrating figures like Tunstall, we can ensure that the conservative voice remains a vital part of the national conversation.