Chapter 30 Summary

Governor Simpson and others attempt to find an acceptable solution to the repayment problems. The Reparations Commission is supposed to treat claimants fairly, but in reality it has no power. Simpson involves Butler in private and public talks. Butler makes promises, speeches and public pronouncements, but he continues to take no action.

Some large claimants with political or social influence, as well as claimants with ties to Butler, are paid off in special deals, but the average person is treated unfairly. Due to Butler's financial influence, newspapers start to run stories stating that the reparations are fair and timely.

In St. Bernard and Plaquemines Parishes, total claims reach $35 million. Only $12.5 million is accepted by the board, and less than $4 million is actually approved. From that, nearly $1 million is deducted as charges for feeding and housing refugees. Of the roughly $3 million that is actually...