1964 Democratic National Convention: Civil Rights Dominate the Agenda

Convention Highlights

The 1964 Democratic National Convention held at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey from August 24-28, 1964, marked a pivotal moment in the history of the party. The convention was dominated by the issue of civil rights, which had been a major source of division within the party for decades.

Southern Opposition to Civil Rights

In 1948, the Democratic National Convention was rocked by a heated debate over civil rights. Southern Democrats, known as Dixiecrats, opposed the party's civil rights platform and walked out of the convention. In 1964, the issue of civil rights remained a flashpoint, with Southern Democrats continuing to resist efforts to promote equality for African Americans.

Kennedy's "Mississippi Challenge"

One of the most significant moments of the 1964 convention came when Mississippi's established Democrats sent a segregated delegation. Attorney General Robert Kennedy, representing President Lyndon B. Johnson, challenged the delegation's legitimacy, leading to the seating of an integrated delegation.

Kennedy's "War on Poverty" Speech

Robert Kennedy delivered a rousing address at the convention, calling for a "war on poverty." The speech captured the attention of Americans across the nation and became known as his "war on poverty" speech. Kennedy's words resonated with many who were struggling with economic hardship and lack of opportunity.