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Conventions 1956-1972 National
party conventions are held every four years, before a presidential election,
so that a party can officially name its presidential nominee. The dynamics
of party conventions have changed drastically since their inception.
Early conventions were often highly charged affairs, with the outcome
frequently unknown until the very end. More recently, national party
conventions have become more harmonious and increasingly ceremonial.
Conventions serve to outline a partys platform, and promote the
party. The Democratic and Republican National Conventions are large
scale, multi-day events that draw intense media coverage as thousands
of party faithful rally behind their presidential nominee. Press passes for the 1968 Democratic National Convention. 1964
Democratic National Convention tickets. Richard Nixon and Sammy Davis Jr. appear onstage with others at the 1972 Republican National Convention. Signs of support for John F. Kennedy at the 1960 Democratic National Convention. Supporters
rally for Adlai Stevenson at the 1956 Democratic National Convention. A variety of state delegations cheer for Richard Nixon at the 1968 Republican National Convention. New York
delegation placeholders line convention chairs at the 1964 Democratic
National Convention. |