A national convention generally is a gathering of persons from across the nation who share a common interest. National conventions are held by public and private groups of all varieties, such as farmers, journalists, doll collectors, square dancers, and many others.
The political conventions of the Republican and Democratic parties to nominate presidential candidates are some of the best known national 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.
