Getting the Nomination | Campaigning
Hats Off to Politics


Papier-mâché pineapple hat worn by a Robert Dole supporter at the 1996 Republican convention

For Americans, elections have always been more than just serious deliberations for choosing a president. Political campaigns are intended to be entertaining, and are an opportunity for outrageous expressions of partisanship. Why do political supporters parade around with pineapples on their heads? The only answer is--because it's fun!


"Cheesehead" hat worn by a Wisconsin delegate to the 1996 Chicago Democratic convention
Hat created by the Democratic National Committee for supporters of Lyndon B. Johnson's 1964 presidential campaign
Hat worn by a George Bush delegate to the 1992 Houston Republican convention


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National Museum of American History