A convention center is generally defined as any property used in connection with a convention or meeting center, or similar facility, including auditoriums, exhibition halls, facilities for food preparation and serving, parking facilities, and administrative offices. A number of states have passed legislation enabling public funding to be used for convention centers in an effort to attract tourism and businesses to the local economy.
The political conventions of the Republican and Democratic parties to nominate presidential candidates are some of the best known conventions. State conventions for nominating candidates were first held in the early 19th century. The first national convention was held by the Anti-Masonic party in Baltimore in 1831. In 1832 the Democrats nominated Andrew Jackson at a national convention. The Republican party held its first national convention in 1856, when John Frémont was chosen as the presidential candidate.
