20th Century Elections
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1960 Election
John F. Kennedy
Democratic Candidate 1960
Running mate: Lyndon B. Johnson
Rayon, waste cotton, and cotton tapestry.
Italy, 1964
Gift of Cecelia and U.I. “Chick” Harris, 2007
Election Memorabilia
Items on Display:
F.D. Roosevelt glass ashtray
I LIKE IKE (D.D. Eisenhower) Dixie cup
Adlai Stevenson cigarette pack
IKE (D.D. Eisenhower) cigarette pack
Richard Nixon eraser
Spiro Agnew eraser
"Kennedy-Johnson" campaign hat
Nixon Paper Dress
Made by Mars of Asheville, North Carolina, 1968
A highly combustible disposable mini (“This material is fire resistant unless washed or dry cleaned, then becomes dangerously flammable when dry,” the label explains.)
In the mid 60’s paper dresses were all the rage. A classic example where fashion, art, consumerism, and politics intersect.
Zenith (USA) Television, 1957 Model Z1812RZ, 17”
The televised debates between Vice President Richard M. Nixon (R) and Senator John F. Kennedy (D) marked a turning point in the elections of American presidents. Though familiar enough with television, Vice President Nixon appeared uncomfortable and nervous in comparison to Senator Kennedy who looked confident and seemed very much at ease.
Interestingly enough, those who listened to the debates on radio rather than watching them on television favored Nixon’s performance in the debates while those who watched the debates on television gave Kennedy far higher marks.
The presidential debates of 1960 marked a turning point in presidential campaigns. After the election of 1960, political candidates had to accommodate themselves to television and their campaigns would regularly draw upon the experience of Hollywood and Madison Avenue to present the candidates and a compelling message to the electorate.
"Kennedy-Johnson" Campaign Hat
Styrofoam
Gift of Cecilia and U.I. “Chick” Harris, 2007
