Final answer:
Modern political party nominating conventions started in the early 19th century and evolved from being highly controlled by party leaders to becoming influenced by the public through primaries and caucuses. By the 1980s, they became largely ceremonial events that validated the results of the primary elections, and today they serve as orchestrated media events and platforms for party messaging.
Step-by-step explanation:
Origins and Evolution of Political Party Nominating Conventions:
The modern political party nominating conventions had their start in the United States in the early 19th century. At first, these conventions were controlled by party leaders and certain party insiders, who selected the candidates. Over time, primaries and caucuses became a way to directly involve the public in this process. By the early 20th century, states began holding primaries that influenced the selection of candidates ahead of the conventions.
Throughout the 20th century, the role of the conventions shifted from being closely contested events amongst party leaders to more ceremonial events where the results of the primary elections are confirmed. This was vividly seen by the 1970s, and by the 1980s, conventions served primarily as promotional events. During the 2016 elections, candidates like Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders illustrated the influence of the primary system, as they succeeded despite concerns from party elites.
Today, the national conventions are orchestrated media events that serve not only to endorse the nominee but also to set the party platform and showcase emerging political figures to the national audience. While the drama of the actual nomination may have reduced, these conventions remain an important part of the political process in the United States.