Huey Long, known as "Kingfish," was a controversial and charismatic political leader in Louisiana, serving as a U.S. Senator and the Governor of Louisiana. His political ambitions were centered around the Share Our Wealth program, aimed at redistributing wealth to provide more for the poor and middle class during the Great Depression. Long's tenure was marked by strong populist policies and a considerable following, but also by significant opposition from various political factions and the status quo. On September 8, 1935, Long was in the Louisiana State Capitol building engaged in discussions regarding his political agenda when Dr. Carl Weiss approached him. Weiss, a doctor and member of a political family opposed to Long's regime, allegedly confronted Long leading to the fatal shooting. Long was hit multiple times, resulting in critical injuries. He was rushed to the hospital but ultimately died two days later, on September 10, 1935.

The fallout from Long's assassination was significant, affecting Louisiana's political landscape and the national political scene as well. Following his death, his supporters and political allies vied for power, leading to a surge in populist politics throughout the region. His policies continued to influence Louisiana politics long after his demise, with various factions either embracing or opposing his legacy. Long's tenure and subsequent assassination became emblematic of the intense political rivalry and unrest that characterized the U.S. during the New Deal era and the societal shifts of the 1930s.