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 party’s 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.

Items shown here are from the American Political Items Collectors and Ollie Atkins Photography Collections.

Press passes for the 1968 Democratic National Convention.

1964 Democratic National Convention tickets.

Entertainer and photographer entrance tickets to the 1964 Republican National Convention.

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.