September 26 in American History

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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