Meaning: The quote by Michael Beschloss addresses the impact of the changing political landscape on the nomination of John F. Kennedy as the Democratic candidate for the 1960 presidential election. In his statement, Beschloss highlights the significance of the evolving convention system in enabling Kennedy to secure the nomination despite potential opposition from those who had previously worked with him in Washington.

During the early 1960s, the political process in the United States was undergoing a transformation, particularly in the way presidential nominations were determined. Prior to this period, the nomination process was heavily influenced by party insiders and political operatives who held considerable sway over the selection of candidates. This system, known as the old convention system, often favored established political figures who had the support of party elites and influential individuals within the political establishment.

However, as the dynamics of American politics evolved, particularly with the rise of television and the increasing influence of mass media, the traditional power structures within political parties began to shift. The emergence of a more open and inclusive nomination process allowed for greater participation from the general public and grassroots movements, thereby challenging the dominance of party insiders in determining the party's presidential nominee.

In the case of John F. Kennedy, his candidacy exemplified the changing nature of the political landscape. As a relatively young and charismatic senator from Massachusetts, Kennedy represented a departure from the traditional mold of presidential candidates. His background as a newcomer to national politics and his family's wealth and influence set him apart from the old guard of the Democratic Party.

Beschloss's quote underscores the significance of these changes in the nomination process. He suggests that under the old convention system, Kennedy's candidacy would have faced significant obstacles due to opposition from those who were part of the established political network in Washington. The implication is that the old system would have made it difficult for a candidate like Kennedy, with his limited experience and unconventional background, to garner the necessary support from the party's traditional power brokers.

However, the evolving convention system provided a more open and democratic platform for Kennedy to showcase his appeal to a broader audience. His ability to connect with voters directly, particularly through televised debates and campaign appearances, allowed him to bypass the traditional barriers that may have hindered his candidacy under the old convention system. This shift in the nomination process ultimately contributed to Kennedy's successful bid for the Democratic nomination and his subsequent election as the 35th President of the United States.

In summary, Michael Beschloss's quote captures the significance of the changing convention system in shaping the outcome of the 1960 presidential nomination. It illustrates how the evolving political landscape allowed for a candidate like John F. Kennedy to overcome the barriers that may have impeded his candidacy under the old system. By embracing a more inclusive and participatory approach to the nomination process, the Democratic Party paved the way for a new generation of leaders to emerge and reshape the course of American politics.