Ep. 590 — Don Rose
1Digest
This podcast features a conversation with Don Rose, a prominent figure in American social and political history, who provides insights into the 1968 Democratic Convention in Chicago. The episode delves into the political climate of the era, the key players involved, and the escalating violence that erupted during the convention. Rose recounts the clashes between anti-war protesters and police, highlighting the atmosphere of fear and unrest that prevailed. He discusses the legacy of the convention, including the nomination of Hubert Humphrey and the subsequent election of Richard Nixon, and how the protests shaped the political landscape. The conversation then shifts to the upcoming 2024 Democratic Convention, with Rose analyzing the potential for protests and disruptions in light of the current political climate. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining unity and exuberance at the convention, particularly in the face of the Trump campaign's divisive rhetoric. Rose also addresses the issue of anti-Semitism and its potential connection to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, expressing concern about its rise on the left and the need for nuanced understanding of the complex issues involved.
Outlines
The Tumultuous 1968 Democratic Convention in Chicago
This episode delves into the 1968 Democratic Convention in Chicago, a pivotal event marked by violent clashes between anti-war protesters and police. Don Rose, who played a key role in organizing the protests, provides context for the era's political climate and the deep divisions surrounding the Vietnam War.
The Players and the Political Landscape of 1968
Rose discusses the key figures involved in the 1968 Democratic Convention, including Lyndon Johnson, Eugene McCarthy, and Robert Kennedy. He analyzes their positions on the Vietnam War and the impact of their actions on the political landscape.
The Convention's Violence and Its Aftermath
Rose recounts the escalating violence during the convention, particularly the clashes at Grant Park and the Hilton Hotel. He describes the police brutality and the atmosphere of fear and unrest that prevailed.
The Legacy of the 1968 Convention
Rose reflects on the lasting impact of the 1968 convention, including the nomination of Hubert Humphrey and the subsequent election of Richard Nixon. He discusses the role of the protests in shaping the political landscape and the transition to a more democratic system of nominating candidates.
The 2024 Democratic Convention and the Future of American Politics
The conversation shifts to the upcoming 2024 Democratic Convention and the role of party bosses in the nomination process. Rose compares the current political climate to 1968 and discusses the potential for protests and disruptions. He analyzes Trump's campaign strategy, which he sees as focused on race-baiting and divisive rhetoric, and expresses concern about the potential for increased polarization and its impact on American politics.
Anti-Semitism and the Palestinian-Israeli Conflict
Rose addresses the issue of anti-Semitism and its potential connection to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. He expresses concern about the rise of anti-Semitism on the left and the need for nuanced understanding of the complex issues involved.
Keywords
1968 Democratic Convention
The 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago was a tumultuous event marked by violent clashes between anti-war protesters and police. It was a pivotal moment in American history, reflecting the deep divisions surrounding the Vietnam War and the rise of social unrest.
Vietnam War
The Vietnam War was a major conflict that divided American society. The war's impact on the political landscape, social movements, and the lives of individuals is still felt today.
Lyndon Johnson
Lyndon B. Johnson was the 36th president of the United States. He is known for his Great Society programs, which aimed to address poverty and inequality, but also for his escalation of the Vietnam War.
Eugene McCarthy
Eugene McCarthy was a Democratic senator from Minnesota who challenged Lyndon Johnson in the 1968 presidential election. He ran on an anti-war platform and helped to galvanize the anti-war movement.
Robert Kennedy
Robert F. Kennedy was a Democratic senator from New York and the brother of President John F. Kennedy. He was a prominent figure in the civil rights movement and a vocal critic of the Vietnam War. He was assassinated in 1968.
Richard Daley
Richard J. Daley was the mayor of Chicago from 1955 to 1976. He was a powerful political figure who controlled the city's Democratic machine. He is known for his handling of the 1968 Democratic Convention, which was marked by violence and police brutality.
Hubert Humphrey
Hubert Humphrey was the vice president under Lyndon Johnson and a leading civil rights advocate. He was nominated for president by the Democratic Party in 1968 but lost to Richard Nixon.
Richard Nixon
Richard Nixon was the 37th president of the United States. He is known for his role in the Watergate scandal, which led to his resignation in 1974.
Donald Trump
Donald Trump is the 45th president of the United States. He is a controversial figure known for his populist rhetoric and divisive policies.
Q&A
What were the key factors that contributed to the violence at the 1968 Democratic Convention in Chicago?
The violence at the 1968 Democratic Convention was fueled by a combination of factors, including the deep divisions surrounding the Vietnam War, the presence of a large and vocal anti-war movement, and the refusal of Mayor Daley to grant permits for protests.
How did the 1968 convention change the way candidates are nominated in the United States?
The 1968 convention marked the end of the era of party bosses controlling the nomination process. The rise of primaries and caucuses gave voters a greater say in selecting their party's nominee.
What are the potential challenges and opportunities for the 2024 Democratic Convention?
The 2024 Democratic Convention faces challenges related to the current political climate, the potential for protests, and the need to mobilize voters. However, it also presents an opportunity to showcase the party's unity and vision for the future.
How does Don Rose view the Trump campaign's strategy for the 2024 election?
Don Rose believes that the Trump campaign is focused on intensifying divisions and appealing to a narrow base of supporters. He expresses concern about the potential for increased polarization and the impact on American politics.
What are Don Rose's thoughts on the rise of anti-Semitism and its connection to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict?
Don Rose is concerned about the rise of anti-Semitism, particularly on the left. He believes that the behavior of some in Israel has contributed to the problem and that a nuanced understanding of the complex issues involved is crucial.
Show Notes
Much has been said about perceived parallels between this year’s Democratic National Convention in Chicago and the 1968 convention, hallmarked by a violent response to anti-Vietnam War protestors and an incumbent who announced he would not seek reelection. Few are as qualified to speak on those comparison as Don Rose, a Chicago journalist, political strategist, and activist who was a leader in organizing the ’68 protests. He joined David to talk about 1968 and today, how protests against the war in Gaza could affect the DNC, how focusing on abortion issues may have helped Vice President Kamala Harris’ rise, and his surprise—and delight—at her selection of Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate.
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