What was the bourbon triumvirate ?

The term bourbon triumvirate is known as the most powerful and strong politicians of the post reconstruction of Georgia.  

Explanation:

These three prominent politicians were Alfred H. Colquitt, John B. Gordon and Joseph E. Brown. These three put a lock on the state's US Senate seats and office of the governor from the period 1872 to 1890.

Brown served as senator from 1880 to 1890, Colquitt served as both senator (1883 to 1894) and governor (1876 to 1882) and same as Gordon (from 1886 to 1890 and senator from 1872 to 1880 and governor).

Apart from their political career and interest the trio also had interest in the railroad and coal-mining industries, among other commercial pursuits.  

d.) continue to rise rapidly