Transition from World War II to peacetime economy

The nation was facing challenges such as labor unrest and inflation

Internal divisions within the Democratic Party

Civil rights issues

The party was split over Truman's endorsement of a civil rights platform

Formation of third-party candidates

The Dixiecrats and the Progressive Party further complicated Truman's re-election

Diverse array of candidates

Truman and Dewey were the main contenders, with additional challengers from third-party candidates

Internal divisions at the Democratic National Convention

Truman's civil rights platform led to a walkout by Southern delegates and the formation of the Dixiecrats

Truman's nomination and selection of a running mate

Truman chose Senator Alben W. Barkley as his vice-presidential running mate

Strategy of third-party candidates

The Dixiecrats aimed to influence the outcome of the election, while the Progressive Party advocated for far-left policies

Unity at the Republican National Convention

Despite underlying tensions, Dewey secured the nomination with a platform that embraced certain welfare programs and support for the United Nations

Dewey's campaign approach

Dewey emphasized unity and avoided divisive issues, in contrast to Truman's more aggressive campaign

Rivals for the Republican nomination

Taft, Warren, and MacArthur were Dewey's main competitors

Social welfare programs and government's role in the economy

Truman campaigned as the protector of the New Deal, while Dewey's platform included support for certain welfare programs

Truman's "Turnip Day Session"

Truman challenged the Republican-led Congress to enact their campaign promises, earning them the label of the "do-nothing Congress."

Contrasting campaign approaches

Truman focused on addressing the concerns of various voter groups, while Dewey took a more general and less confrontational approach

Truman's victory

Despite predictions and polls, Truman achieved a decisive victory, defeating Dewey and thwarting the Dixiecrats' strategy

Effects on political campaign strategy

The election highlighted the importance of voter engagement and the potential for late shifts in public opinion

Enduring consequences for the Democratic Party

Truman's victory solidified his presidency and had lasting effects on the party's ideological divisions, particularly on civil rights