Video: '"The Dream Shall Never Die" Ted Kennedy DNC 1980'
(Tuesday, August 12, 1980, approximately 9:30 p.m. EDT; the 1980 Democratic National Convention) — U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy, having withdrawn his challenge to President Jimmy Carter for the Democratic presidential nomination on Aug. 11, delivered his “The Dream Shall Never Die” speech tonight at the Democratic National Convention at Madison Square Garden in New York City, calling for Democrats to “keep the faith” with their traditional principles.
Kennedy defended post-World War II liberalism, advocated for a national healthcare insurance model, criticized Republican presidential nominee Ronald Reagan and implicitly rebuked Carter for his more moderate political stances.
“For me, a few hours ago, this campaign came to an end,” Kennedy said as he concluded the speech. “For all those whose cares have been our concern, the work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die.”
The address has been remembered by some as Kennedy’s best speeches, and one of the most influential orations of the era.
