Selma is famous for two events that occurred 100 years apart--the Civil War in 1865 and the Voting Rights March in 1965. But, as the second oldest surviving city in Alabama, it woes its indomitable spirit to its citizens. Ever since William Rufus King (who later became a U.S. vice president) founded the town in 1820 and gave it a name meaning "high throne", Selma has stood the test of time. From prosperity in the "king Cotton" years before the Civil War to devastation caused during the Battle of Selma and Reconstruction, its people reemained steadfast. The town rebuilt and once again became a leader in the region and state. In the mid-Twentieth Century, it basked as the economic hub of the Blackbelt region and bustled with the activity of Craig Air Force Base. Then, in the 1960's Selma also became the center of the Civil Rights Movement. The day in March 1965, when marchers were gassed and beaten as they tried to cross the Edmund Pettus Bridge without a permit, marred Selma's image for years. Then, when the federal government closed Craig Field in the late 1970's during a period of high inflation, the and unemployment, the economy again was threatened. But, true, to its name, Selma stood firm atop its soapstone throne overlooking the Alabama River. The city reclaimed Craig Field after a long court battle, then developed it into an airport and industrial complex. Leaders also promoted tourism and expanded its economic base. Now, Selma is a popular tourism spot. It has the largest historic district in Alabama and is home to the National Voting Rights Museum and Civil Rights historic sites.