Context And Background

The 1968 Democratic National Convention: A Tumultuous Gathering

Context and Background

The 1968 Democratic National Convention, held from August 26-29 in Chicago, Illinois, was a pivotal moment in American history. It took place amidst a tumultuous era marked by widespread social upheaval and political polarization.

Key Events

The convention witnessed intense debates over the Vietnam War, with anti-war protesters clashing violently with police. This confrontation became one of the most iconic images of the 1960s counterculture movement.

Hubert Humphrey ultimately secured the Democratic nomination for president, despite facing strong opposition from anti-war candidate Eugene McCarthy and other challengers.

Impact and Legacy

The 1968 Democratic National Convention left a lasting impact on American politics.

• It deepened the divisions within the Democratic Party and contributed to the party's defeat in the subsequent presidential election.
• The protests highlighted the growing public dissatisfaction with the Vietnam War and accelerated the anti-war movement.
• The convention's legacy of police brutality and violence serves as a reminder of the complexities of political dissent in the United States.

Additional Facts and Statistics

According to the Chicago Police Department, 644 people were arrested during the protests, and 110 police officers were injured.

The Kerner Commission, established by President Lyndon B. Johnson to investigate the causes of the riots, concluded that "Our nation is moving toward two societies, one black, one white—separate and unequal."

The 1968 Democratic National Convention remains a significant event in American history, underscoring the challenges and divisions that shaped the turbulent 1960s.