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The Conversation USA

Bobbleheads, Magic 8 Balls, chairs and other artifacts in the Smithsonian reveal the historical significance of presidential debates

  • Written by Claire Jerry, Political History Curator, Smithsonian Institution
imageDonald Trump and Kamala Harris will face off in their first presidential debate on Sept. 10, 2024.AP Photo

Even though debates have been some of the most eagerly anticipated events in presidential campaigns, audiences and candidates have long wondered whether they matter.

The political history collections at the National Museum of American History,...

Read more: Bobbleheads, Magic 8 Balls, chairs and other artifacts in the Smithsonian reveal the historical...

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