The University of Oklahoma established the Center in 1979 in honour of one of its alumini, who was Speaker of the House of Representatives from 1971-77. At 5 feet 4 inches tall, Albert was often affectionately known as the "Little Giant from Little Dixie". On his way to that top job he was House Majority Whip (1955-62) and Majority Leader (1962-71).The archives at the center contain a number of important collections - including those of Helen Gahagan Douglas (a liberal who was the first victim of a Nixon smear campaign); Senator Robert S Kerr; Senator Fred Harris (Harris' run for the Presidency in 1976 had at least two unusual features. For one, in order to keep expenses down, he traveled the country in a RV and stayed in private homes, giving his hosts a card which was to be redeemable for one night's stay in the White House upon his election. For another, he placed unusual stress on issues affecting the working class.) and Dick Armey (House Majority Leader 1995-2003). A link to the archives can be found here.
The Center produces a journal which can be accessed online called Extensions. It has included a number of interesting articles.
The Center's website is http://www.ou.edu/carlalbertcenter/
