Mud-Slinging and Deadly Duels: How Negative Campaigning Evolved

The factionalized press was the site of campaigning in the U.S.'s first contested presidential elections.

via Retro Report on September 6, 2024

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Explore the history and impact of negative campaigning in U.S. presidential elections.

Negative campaigning is a longstanding tradition in U.S. presidential elections, from the first contested race in 1796 to modern times. Clashes between early political figures like John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr set the stage for the intense, divisive campaigns we see today. Learn how these strategies evolved, and what they reveal about American democracy.

View transcript here.

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