1968 Republican National Convention: A Forgotten Turning Point

Overview

In the tumultuous year of 1968, the Republican National Convention was held in Miami Beach, Florida. However, it is often overshadowed by the more memorable Democratic National Convention that followed just a few weeks later.

A Conservative Shift

The Republican Convention was marked by a conservative shift within the party. Former Vice President Richard Nixon became the nominee, promising to restore law and order to a nation grappling with social unrest. The convention's focus on "peace with honor" in Vietnam also signaled a departure from President Lyndon B. Johnson's policies.

Contrast to the Democratic Convention

The Republican National Convention stood in stark contrast to the Democratic National Convention that followed. While the Republicans presented a message of stability and order, the Democrats were embroiled in a bitter contest between supporters of Senator Eugene McCarthy and Vice President Hubert Humphrey. The resulting chaos and violence at the Democratic Convention further highlighted the conservative message of the Republicans.

Legacy

Despite its conservative shift, the 1968 Republican National Convention is often overlooked in historical accounts. However, it played a significant role in shaping the Republican Party's platform and the outcome of the presidential election. Richard Nixon's victory marked the beginning of a new era of conservative dominance in American politics.