Answer:
I can answer the middle question. The main factors that have always limited the success of conservatism in America is liberals and other opposing groups.
Explanation:
As for the second part of the question, I don't think they did. To this day conservatives have a hard time expressing themselves and voicing their political views. Especially nowadays, they can be viewed as bigots or even sometimes a type of evil.
I hope this helped~ -Austin <3