When did the Republican Party begin to play a significant role in Georgia politics?

The significant role of the Republican Party in Georgia politics began during the Civil Rights Movement. This period marked a time when the state's political landscape shifted, particularly as many Southern Democrats became disillusioned with the national Democratic Party's stance on civil rights. As the Republican Party capitalized on the conservative sentiments of white voters in Georgia during this time, it began to gain traction and establish a stronger presence in state and local elections.

While the other options mentioned may reference important historical events in Georgia's political timeline, they do not explain the proportionate rise of the Republican Party in the context of Georgia politics. The change to the Georgia flag in 2001 and the election of Jimmy Carter primarily signify different cultural or political moments rather than the emergence of the Republican Party as a significant force. The aftermath of the Great Depression led to various political changes but did not directly result in a substantial shift towards the Republican Party in Georgia as the Civil Rights Movement did.