What was the goal of the protesters at the 1968 Democratic National Convention?
1 Answer
To highlight opposition to the war in Vietnam.
Explanation:
By 1968 there was widespread opposition to the Vietnam war in the USA. Events such as the Tet offensive in January and February 1968 seemed to contradict the assurances by the Johnson administration that the war was being won.
The protests also reflected the counterculture of the late 60's when many within American society particularly amongst the young were rejecting the prevalent norms and values of post war American society. Groups such as the yippies were prominent in the demonstrations.
Chicago at the time was run by Mayor Richard Daley the last of the bosses who dominated much of metropolitan US politics from the late 19th century. He promised to take a tough line against the demonstrators and the actions of the Chicago police reflected that attitude.
The ensuing and fighting and violence for several days seemed to reflect the insecurity and divisions within American society over issues such as race and the war in Vietnam.
