The current political climate is reminiscent of the Vietnam War protests of the late 1960s, where mass mobilization against the war led to significant civil unrest. The Democratic National Convention in 1968 highlighted the tension as protesters clashed with police, raising questions about whether the events of 2024 could mirror that volatility. This comparison urges reflection on societal willingness to engage in activism for change amidst ongoing conflict.
When Chicago hosted the Democratic National Convention in 1968, it descended into riots in the street and chaos on the floor. Historian Rick Perlstein talks about whether 2024 risks a repeat.
This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Miranda Kennedy, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andi Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Noel King. Photo credit: Bettman / Getty Images.
Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast
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