1968 Democratic National Convention

Definition

The 1968 Democratic National Convention was a pivotal political gathering held in Chicago, where delegates from across the United States came together to nominate the party's candidate for the presidential election. This convention became notorious for the chaotic protests and violent clashes between demonstrators and police, reflecting the social upheaval of the era and the deep divisions within the party over issues like the Vietnam War and civil rights. The events at this convention were heavily covered by television, showcasing the power of media in shaping public perception of political events.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The convention took place from August 26 to August 29, 1968, in Chicago amid widespread anti-war protests and civil unrest.
2. Television coverage of the convention brought graphic images of violence and chaos into American homes, influencing public perception of both the Democratic Party and the political climate.
3. The nomination of Hubert Humphrey as the Democratic candidate was controversial due to his support for the Vietnam War, which alienated many progressive voters.
4. The protests outside the convention were led by various activist groups, including Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) and the Youth International Party (Yippies), highlighting generational divides within society.
5. The 1968 convention marked a significant moment in American history, illustrating how media could amplify social movements and shape political outcomes.

Review Questions

• How did the protests at the 1968 Democratic National Convention reflect broader societal issues at that time?
  • The protests at the 1968 Democratic National Convention highlighted deep societal divisions over issues such as the Vietnam War, civil rights, and generational conflict. Many demonstrators were young people disillusioned with government policies, reflecting a growing counterculture movement that opposed traditional political norms. The clashes with police not only illustrated the intense emotions surrounding these issues but also showcased how activists sought to make their voices heard on a national stage.
• Discuss how television coverage of the 1968 Democratic National Convention impacted public perception of the event and its political significance.
  • Television coverage played a critical role in shaping public perception during the 1968 Democratic National Convention by broadcasting live footage of protests and police confrontations directly into American homes. This unfiltered glimpse into the chaos contributed to a sense of urgency and alarm among viewers, leading many to question not just the actions of law enforcement but also the direction of the Democratic Party. As a result, television emerged as a powerful medium that influenced public opinion about politics and social issues.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of the events at the 1968 Democratic National Convention on future political conventions and party dynamics.
  • The events at the 1968 Democratic National Convention had significant long-term consequences for future political conventions and party dynamics. The chaos and division experienced in Chicago led to reforms in how delegates were selected and how conventions were organized, aiming to increase inclusivity and transparency within party politics. Additionally, it catalyzed a shift in voter alignment and activism, with many progressive activists becoming disenchanted with traditional political processes, which ultimately influenced future electoral strategies and party platforms for decades to come.

Related terms

Civil Rights Movement: A social movement in the United States aimed at ending racial discrimination and securing equal rights for African Americans, significantly influencing political discourse during the 1960s.

Anti-Vietnam War Protests: A series of demonstrations and movements opposing U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War, which reached a peak around the time of the 1968 convention.

Media Coverage: The reporting and broadcasting of news events, which played a crucial role in shaping public opinion during the 1968 convention, especially through television.