USA Today contributing writer Sandy Grady analyzes the 1960 Democratic nomination process and makes some parallels between it and the 2008 Democratic nomination process.

Discussion Questions

1. During the primary election of 1960, who were the Democratic presidential candidates? Which candidate became the Democratic presidential nominee?
2. In the clip of the 1960 news conference before the start of the Democratic nominating process, does anything stand out to you? If so, what?
3. Compare the atmosphere of the 1960 Democratic Convention to more recent political conventions. How has the role of conventions changed over the years?
4. What lessons does Mr. Grady suggest Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL) and Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-NY) should learn from the 1960 Democratic primary? Do you agree with his analysis? Why or why not?