Michael Chaney, New Hampshire Political Library President and CEO, explains a new exhibit on display at the Tuck Library in Concord, New Hampshire featuring the history and role of the New Hampshire primary election.

Discussion Questions

1. In what year did New Hampshire hold its first primary election? According to state law, New Hampshire is supposed to be the first primary election in the presidential nomination process. When did it achieve this status? What does this mean for presidential candidates?
2. According to Mr. Chaney, why did New Hampshire decide to continue holding a state primary election? What did some other states decide to do with their primary elections?
3. Mr. Chaney points out the ballot box from Dixville Notch, New Hampshire. Research Dixville Notch. Explain its role in presidential elections.
4. What is the purpose of the Library’s exhibit? In addition to the Dixville Notch ballot box, list some of the exhibit’s other items. Which ones do you find interesting? Why?