Historic Atlantic City Connection To The Civil Rights Movement

1964 was a huge year in the history of Atlantic City, New Jersey. The Democratic Nation Convention and The Beatles took place in Atlantic City.

The Democratic National Convention — August 24-27, 1964
The Beatles — August 30, 1964

Isn’t it fascinating and quite amazing that two such enormously consequential national events took place in Atlantic City during the same year and the same month, just a few days apart from one another.

Legendary Appearances At The Democratic National Convention in Atlantic City

United States President Lyndon B. Johnson
The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Fannie Lou Hamer

All three of the above did speak. President Johnson actually did a very dirty trick, when he called for an impromptu 15-minute press conference right while Fannie Lou Hamer was to speak. This was a sleazy attempt to block Hamer from being heard by America.

Fannie Lou Hamer & History Would Not Be Denied

The national media covered President Johnson’s hastily called, bogus press conference. However, the networks covered Hamer that evening in their newscasts.

Dr. King and Hamer are featured in the photo directly above.

Visit Atlantic City Funds New Video Highlighting Fannie Lou Hamer's Historic Connection to Atlantic City

New installment of the docuseries about Fannie Lou Hamer will be released on August 21, 2026 (on the PBS app) becoming part of the Fannie Lou Hamer Digital Driving Tour, expanding the national civil ... activist Fannie Lou Hamer's powerful connection to the city. Part of the Fannie Lou Hamer Digital Driving Tour, the video will mirror ... footage, the video also highlights Atlantic City's efforts to preserve Hamer's legacy by featuring Stockton University's Fannie Lou Hamer room, according to Visit Atlantic City.

The Historical Significance

Mississippi Freedom Trail Marker, located on the Boardwalk in Atlantic City, at Kennedy Plaza.

This marker honors the Mississippi Freedom Trail and their position regarding the Democratic Party's fight for equality during the 1964 Democratic National Convention.