Question

What was one way in which the televised debate between Kennedy and Nixon was significant?

a. Nixon had been far less prominent than Kennedy in the national conversation, so the debate propelled him to notoriety.
b. Kennedy and Nixon's rapport on screen resulted in their being grouped as running mates on a winning ticket.
c. The debate grew so heated and almost violent that the two parties panicked and considered trying out different candidates.
d. The visual nature of the debate played to Kennedy's strengths, especially as Nixon was sick with a virus.
e. Kennedy proved so successful in the debate that he only felt the need to invest in a small campaign and traveled little.

Answer 1

The televised debate between Kennedy and Nixon was significant because it highlighted the impact of television and public image in elections, as Kennedy's polished appearance and direct camera engagement contrasted with Nixon's ill appearance and lack of makeup, swaying television viewers' opinions.

Step-by-step explanation:

One way in which the televised debate between Kennedy and Nixon was significant is that it demonstrated how television could influence voters' perceptions of candidates. The visual nature of the debate played to Kennedy's strengths, as he appeared tan, rested, and confident.

Nixon, however, appeared pale and sickly due to the flu and a recent knee injury, and his decision to forgo makeup did not help his on-camera image.

Moreover, Nixon's tendency to look away from the camera contrasted with Kennedy's direct engagement with the television audience. The discrepancy in their appearances contributed to television viewers favoring Kennedy, while radio listeners who could not see them thought Nixon had performed just as well, if not better. This historical event marked a turning point in political campaigns, emphasizing the importance of media presence and public image.