Democratic National Convention Nominates Franklin D. Roosevelt for Third Term

On July 18, 1940, the Democratic National Convention took a significant historical step by nominating Franklin D. Roosevelt for an unprecedented third term as President of the United States. This took place during a crucial period marked by global instability and the brink of war. Roosevelt’s nomination signaled a departure from the tradition established by George Washington of serving only two terms, reflecting both the extraordinary circumstances of the time and Roosevelt’s enduring popularity.

Context and Background

The 1940 Democratic National Convention was held in Chicago, Illinois, at a time when the world was on the verge of World War II. In Europe, Nazi Germany had rapidly expanded its control, and by mid-1940, France had fallen, leaving Britain to stand alone against Hitler. This international crisis bolstered Roosevelt’s argument for continuity in leadership.

Domestically, Roosevelt had overseen profound changes during his presidency, implementing the New Deal to counter the Great Depression’s devastating effects. His economic policies and reforms had earned him considerable support from various segments of American society, despite ongoing debates about the New Deal’s long-term impacts.

Nomination

Roosevelt initially showed reluctance to break the two-term precedent, but his administration and supporters within the Democratic Party argued that his leadership was essential given the international tensions. At the convention, Roosevelt’s nomination was not unanimously favored at first, with some Democrats hesitant about a third term. However, his Vice President, John Nance Garner, opposed his renomination and even ran against him, reflecting internal party divisions.

In a decisive move, the convention nominated Roosevelt on the first ballot. The process underscored Roosevelt’s charisma and his tactical political network, which managed to rally the necessary support. Ultimately, Henry A. Wallace was selected as his running mate to replace Garner.

Aftermath and Historical Significance

Roosevelt’s election to a third term sparked debate about presidential term limits, debates that would eventually lead to the ratification of the 22nd Amendment in 1951, which formally limited U.S. presidents to two terms in office. Roosevelt’s third-term victory in the 1940 Presidential election against the Republican candidate, Wendell Willkie, solidified his influence and enabled him to guide the U.S. through the early years of World War II.

This milestone echoed the evolving role of the United States on the world stage, preparing the nation for eventual direct involvement in World War II following the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941. Roosevelt’s leadership during the war years further cemented his legacy as one of the pivotal figures in American and global history.