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Filibuster

Using the filibuster to delay debate or block legislation has a long history. The term filibuster, from a Dutch word meaning "pirate," became popular in the United States during the 1850s when it was applied to efforts to hold the Senate floor in order to prevent action on a bill.

Origins and Development

        History Briefing: Filibuster and Cloture
        Cloture Rule Mar 8, 1917
        Filibusters and Cloture in the Senate (pdf) (CRS)

About Selected Filibusters

            Huey Long Fillibusters Jun 12-13, 1935
            Arrests Compel Senate Quorum Nov 14, 1942
            Wayne Morse Sets Filibuster Record Apr 24-25, 1953
            Civil Rights Filibuster Ended Jun 10, 1964
            Filibuster Derails Supreme Court Appointment Oct 1, 1968
        Fictional Filibusters
            "Mr. Smith" comes to Washington Oct 17, 1939

Related Items   Cloture