Checkered Past

Today has nothing to do with the board game.

Today’s mascot has nothing to do with the actual day.

So, what are we talking about?

National Checkers Day.

National Checkers Day is the second non-holiday inspired by the 37th president of the United States. But, this time he was running for the 36th vice presidential office.

On this day in 1952 Richard M. Nixon delivered what became known as his Checkers Speech. When confronted with allegations of receiving improper election funds, Nixon trotted his family out in front an estimated 60-million viewers and orated his now famous 30-minute speech. During his talk Nixon announced his intention that his children would keep Checkers the dog though it had been gifted to he and his family.

Presidential hopeful Dwight D. Eisenhower chose to leave his running mate to the whims of public opinion. The result was Nixon expertly maneuvering the new medium to his own ends. The same medium that would help propel his competition to the the White House in 1960.

For our purposes, checkers represents National Periodicals, later DC Comics, marketing strategy beginning in February 1966 through August 1967. Known as the checkerboard stripe, DC branded its most popular titles so consumers would recognize their books on newsstands and spin racks.

Common belief is the campaign wasn’t as eye catching as hoped.

To celebrate, wear some checkered clothing, learn more about Nixon, play the board game or simply read some Silver Age DC.

Oh, and this is also known as National Dogs in Politics Day. Woof.