September 26, 1960 — the first televised presidential debate
Kennedy and Nixon met in Chicago for the first-ever televised general election debate, watched by roughly 70 million Americans. Radio listeners reportedly thought Nixon won on substance; TV viewers leaned toward the younger, more composed-looking Kennedy. Image had officially entered the race.
Common Questions
What happened on September 26 in American history?
In 1960: the first televised presidential debate. Kennedy and Nixon met in Chicago for the first-ever televised general election debate, watched by roughly 70 million Americans.
Why is September 26 significant?
Kennedy and Nixon met in Chicago for the first-ever televised general election debate, watched by roughly 70 million Americans. Radio listeners reportedly thought Nixon won on substance; TV viewers leaned toward the younger, more composed-looking Kennedy. Image had officially entered the race.
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