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By: Jonathan Lindberg

In July 1940, the Democratic Convention in Chicago nominated Franklin Roosevelt for an unprecedented third term. The United States was facing great peril, split over the prospect of war with both Germany and Japan and still shaking the dust of the depression from its shoes. Roosevelt, ambitious to be sure, had kept his third term aspirations close to his heart, much like he would do over his fourth term. But with the nomination secure, Roosevelt turned his attention to the vice presidency, an office which was still voted upon by the delegates. Roosevelt indicated his choice was Henry A. Wallace, then Secretary of Agriculture. The convention was less than pleased. From the White House, Roosevelt followed the proceedings with unusual interest.