News

This Day in History: Barack Obama Becomes the Democratic Party’s First African-American Presidential Nominee

Clay Cane
August 28, 2024

Reading Time: 2 minutes

On Aug. 28, 2008, Barack Obama made history by becoming the Democratic Party’s first African-American presidential nominee during the Democratic National Convention in Denver, Colorado.

In his acceptance speech, Obama reflected on his humble beginnings and the American dream, emphasizing the promise of hard work and unity that defines the nation.

Democratic presidential nominee, Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., his wife, Michelle, and daughters Malia, 10, second from right, and Sasha, 7, wave after his acceptance speechat the Democratic National Convention in Denver, Thursday, Aug. 28, 2008. (AP Photo/Ron Edmonds)

He had successfully navigated a competitive primary, defeating prominent figures like New York Senator Hillary Clinton, whom he later appointed as Secretary of State, and Delaware Senator Joe Biden, his running mate.

Cornelius Winesberry waves a flag after Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama, D-Ill., gave his speech during the Democratic National Convention in Denver, Thursday, Aug. 28, 2008. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

Obama went on to win the general election against Republican Senator John McCain, marking a new era in American politics and pioneering the use of technology and new media in his campaign.

Democratic presidential nominee Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., left, and his running mate, Sen. Joe Biden, D-Del., wave after Obama’s acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention, Aug. 28, 2008, in Denver. (AP Photo/Ron Edmonds, File)

Click play to listen to the AURN News report from Clay Cane. Follow @claycane & @aurnonline for more.

Clay Cane is an award-winning journalist, writer, radio host, and political commentator. A graduate of Rutgers University with a degree in African-American Studies, his work on race, culture, and politics have appeared in national publications, including the Washington Post, CNN, and The Grio. Clay is a regular political commentator on MSNBC. Twitter: @claycane