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New Hampshire: A Proven Primary Tradition
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The history of New Hampshire’s first-in-the-nation Presidential primary was the focus of an
exhibition of the New Hampshire Historical Society and the New Hampshire Political Library on view at the Society's library from September 8, 2007, through May 24, 2008. New
Hampshire: A Proven Primary Tradition looked at the impact New Hampshire’s primary has on the national
Presidential nominating process and examined how the state’s political culture and traditions have shaped its
first-in-the-nation role. The colorful retrospective added to our appreciation for the New Hampshire primary
and reinforced the importance of our own participation in the political process.
New Hampshire’s tradition of political participation goes back to the 18th century, and its town-centered style
of government encourages active participation by all. The state has held a Presidential primary since 1916, and
became first in the nation in 1920. By 1952, when Dwight Eisenhower won an unexpected victory against
Robert Taft, an impressive 43 percent of eligible New Hampshire voters turned out to vote
in the primary. In 2004, that number was up to 74 percent.
New Hampshire: A Proven Primary Tradition gave visitors insight into the unique character of the New Hampshire
Presidential primary by presenting it in a historical context. The exhibition was organized into five sections,
each exploring a different aspect of New Hampshire politics and the primary: Defining a Political
Tradition; An Engaged Citizenry; Knowledge is Power; A Level Playing Field; and The Crucible
of Politics.
An Engaged Citizenry explored how participation in local government has been at the center of New
England political and cultural history for almost four centuries. Town residents continue this tradition of local
participation through annual town meeting day.
Knowledge is Power followed the Enlightenment ideal of an informed citizenry developed as a result of
the American Revolution. The role of newspapers, radio, television and the Internet in the New Hampshire Presidential
primary was explored, as well as the fact that the New Hampshire contest is a venue in which candidates
are forced to deal with voters one-on-one, shaking hands and answering questions in unscripted settings.
A Level Playing Field reflected on how successful campaigning in New Hampshire has not traditionally depended
on a huge financial war chest. New Hampshire’s size and its independent community tradition puts candidates in touch
with a wide range of voters.
In The Crucible of Politics, voters demonstrate their faith in democracy and majority rule by
participating in the electoral process. New Hampshire voters consistently demonstrate record turnout that is twice the
national average. The active stewardship of New Hampshire voters goes further than participating in the
elections. Many of the state’s citizens volunteer time and money to help their chosen candidate.
Moreover, many communities and organizations ensure that candidates come to their schools, town halls and
more informal community settings like living rooms to meet the candidate. No other state can match
New Hampshire’s per capita voter engagement.
Thanks to Our Sponsors
New Hampshire: A Proven Primary Tradition was sponsored by
Rath, Young and Pignatelli,
Boston Private Value Investors,
the Mount Washington Resort, and
BaileyDonovan, with the
New Hampshire Union Leader
and WMUR-TV as media sponsors.
Who Are We?
Founded in 1823, the New Hampshire Historical Society is the
independent nonprofit organization that saves, preserves, and shares New Hampshire history. The Society serves thousands
of children and adults each year through its research library, museum, educational programs,
and award-winning publications.
Join Us!
The New Hampshire Historical Society is not a state-funded agency.
All of the Society's programs and services are made possible by dues and contributions from individuals, foundations,
and businesses. Free admission to Museum of New Hampshire History and free use of library research resources are
two of the many benefits of membership in the New Hampshire Historical Society. You are invited to join today!
Call the membership department at 603/856-0621 or use our convenient and secure online
membership form.
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