1960 Presidential Election Simulation:
Kennedy vs. Nixon

The 1960 Presidential Election was one of the most exciting in history. Both Kennedy and Nixon were strong candidates and campaigned with vigor and enthusiasm. The final election results were close with less than .2% separating the two in the popular vote. A shift of just a few thousand votes in key states would have led to Nixon's election. This simulation is designed to help students recreate the events of 1960 and to relive this exciting moment in the past.

Student Handouts:
Chart of the Electoral System and How It Works
Facts and Firsts About the 1960 Presidential Election
Comparison Chart of State Electoral Strength in 1960 and 2004
           Based Upon Census Returns

Debate Topics for Candidates
Brochure Template for Richard M. Nixon
Brochure Template for John F. Kennedy

Teacher and Student Materials
Rules for the 1960 Presidential Simulation
Excel Spreadsheet for Tabulation of Results
PowerPoint Election Central for Projections

Teacher Use ONLY!
Point Cards for the Simulation
Election Result Tables