1968 Democratic National Convention: Hubert Humphrey's Nomination

Name: 1968 Democratic National Convention: Hubert Humphrey's Nomination
Start: 1911-08-29
Location: Unspecified

The Road to the 1968 Democratic National Convention

The year 1968 was a tumultuous time in American history, marked by significant social change, political upheaval, and international challenges. As the Vietnam War escalated and the civil rights movement gained momentum, the Democratic Party faced deep divisions. The 1968 Democratic National Convention, held in Chicago from August 26 to August 29, became a battleground for this internal conflict. Amidst protests and controversy, Hubert Humphrey emerged as the party's nominee for President.

Hubert Humphrey's Political Background

Hubert Humphrey, born in 1911 in Wallace, South Dakota, was a seasoned politician with a long history of public service. Before his nomination, he served as the Vice President under Lyndon B. Johnson and was a prominent advocate for civil rights, social justice, and the fight against poverty. His experience made him a strong contender, although his association with the Johnson administration and the ongoing Vietnam War created challenges for his candidacy.

The Tensions at the Convention

The Democratic Convention was marred by intense protests against the Vietnam War and the political establishment. Anti-war activists, civil rights demonstrators, and supporters of other candidates, notably Senator Eugene McCarthy and Senator George McGovern, clashed with police outside the convention hall in Chicago. Inside, delegates faced a difficult choice—support Humphrey, who represented the status quo, or demand a shift toward more progressive policies. The atmosphere was charged, ultimately resulting in a divisive and chaotic experience.

Humphrey's Nomination and Its Consequences

Despite the protests, Hubert Humphrey was nominated on the final day of the convention, securing his position as the Democratic candidate for the presidency. The vote was tight, reflecting the party's split, but Humphrey's supporters rallied to secure the necessary majority to endorse him. His acceptance speech focused on unity and the need to bridge the divides in the country, though many remained skeptical of his ties to the Johnson administration.

Challenges Ahead for Humphrey

Humphrey faced an uphill battle in the general election against the Republican nominee, Richard Nixon. With rising anti-war sentiment and a divided electorate, his campaign struggled to gain traction. In the end, the disruption and turmoil surrounding the convention projected a sense of chaos that would haunt the Democratic Party during the entire electoral process.

Impact on American Politics

The 1968 Democratic National Convention and Humphrey's subsequent nomination had a lasting effect on American politics. The event highlighted the deep ideological rifts within the Democratic Party and set the stage for the rise of a more progressive faction. It also revealed the growing public discontent with government policies, ultimately influencing the trajectory of future elections and shaping the political landscape for years to come.

Fun Fact

The Iconic Chicago Police Riot

During the 1968 Democratic National Convention, the streets of Chicago were filled with protests, leading to what is often referred to as the Chicago Police Riot. The violent confrontations between police and demonstrators were broadcast on national television, shocking viewers and marking a significant moment in American protest history.