The 1968 Democratic National Convention: A Tumultuous Gathering in a Divided City
Prelude: A Summer of Unrest
Leading up to the 1968 Democratic Convention, the country was reeling from the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., plunging the nation into turmoil and discontent.
The Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.
On April 4, 1968, Martin Luther King Jr., a prominent civil rights leader and Nobel laureate, was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee. The aftermath of this tragedy ignited widespread rioting and unrest across the country.
Chicago Prepares for the Convention
In August 1968, Chicago braced itself for the Democratic National Convention, an event that would bring together thousands of delegates and protestors.
A City on Edge
The city was already on edge following the assassination of King and the subsequent unrest. The potential for further violence and disruption loomed large.
The Convention: A Time of Division
The Democratic National Convention convened at the International Amphitheatre in Chicago from August 26-29, 1968.
Hubert Humphrey Nominated
Vice President Hubert Humphrey ultimately secured the Democratic nomination, defeating other prominent candidates like Eugene McCarthy and George McGovern.
Protest and Violence
The convention was marred by widespread protests and clashes between anti-war protestors and the Chicago police force. The violent confrontations, captured on television, became a defining image of the convention.
Aftermath: A City Divided
The 1968 Democratic National Convention left an indelible mark on Chicago.
A Loss of Innocence
The convention shattered the city's image as a progressive and welcoming metropolis, revealing deep-seated racial and political divisions.
A Legacy of Mistrust
The violence and police brutality during the convention undermined trust between the city's residents and the authorities.
Conclusion
The 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago stands as a pivotal moment in American history, a time of turmoil and division. The events of that summer shaped the political landscape for years to come and continue to resonate today.
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