who did nixon run against for president in 1968

asalmes

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15-04-2025

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The 1968 United States presidential election was a pivotal moment in American history, marked by social unrest, the Vietnam War, and a three-way race for the presidency. Richard Nixon, the Republican nominee, faced a challenging contest against two formidable opponents: Hubert Humphrey, the Democratic nominee, and George Wallace, the American Independent Party candidate. Understanding the dynamics of this election requires looking at each candidate and their platforms.

The Contenders: Nixon, Humphrey, and Wallace

Richard Nixon (Republican): Nixon, a former vice president under Dwight D. Eisenhower, ran on a platform of restoring law and order, ending the Vietnam War through "peace with honor," and addressing the social and economic anxieties gripping the nation. He tapped into a widespread feeling of disillusionment with the social upheaval and anti-war protests of the era. His "silent majority" strategy resonated with many Americans who felt unheard. He promised a more decisive and less chaotic presidency than his predecessors.

Hubert Humphrey (Democrat): Humphrey, the sitting vice president under Lyndon B. Johnson, inherited a challenging political landscape. The Vietnam War was deeply unpopular, and the Democratic Party was fractured over the issue. Humphrey's close association with Johnson made him a lightning rod for anti-war sentiment. He supported Johnson's policies in Vietnam, making it difficult to attract voters who wanted an immediate end to the conflict. Despite his strong civil rights record, many voters felt he didn't adequately address their concerns.

George Wallace (American Independent Party): Wallace, the governor of Alabama, emerged as a powerful third-party candidate. He capitalized on racial tensions and resentment towards the federal government. His "law and order" rhetoric appealed to voters concerned about rising crime rates and social change. He also opposed federal intervention in civil rights and strongly opposed the Vietnam War, despite his segregationist views. Wallace's candidacy siphoned votes away from both Humphrey and Nixon, significantly impacting the final outcome.

The Election Results: A Close Call

The 1968 election was incredibly close, showcasing the deep divisions within the American populace. Nixon ultimately secured victory with 301 electoral votes, while Humphrey received 191 electoral votes, and Wallace garnered 46 electoral votes. While Nixon won a majority of the electoral votes, Humphrey actually secured a higher percentage of the popular vote than Wallace. This highlighted the significant impact of the Electoral College on the outcome.

The Legacy of the 1968 Election

The 1968 election is often cited as a turning point in American politics. Nixon's victory marked the beginning of a period of Republican dominance, and his presidency would leave an enduring impact, both domestically and internationally. The presence of a strong third-party candidate like Wallace demonstrated the depth of social and political unrest at the time. The election also highlighted the growing influence of television and media in shaping public opinion.

In conclusion, Richard Nixon ran against Hubert Humphrey and George Wallace in the 1968 presidential election. This three-way race reflects a nation grappling with profound political and social challenges, resulting in a highly contested and consequential election. The result ultimately shaped the course of American politics for decades to come.