A History of Conventions

By now we've all seen the convention-goers in funny hats, bedecked with pins and waving flags under the bright lights and red, white and blue balloons. Part civic event and part spectacle, conventions are a tradition dating back to the early 19th century. Today that tradition continues with the nomination of the Romney-Ryan and Obama-Biden tickets in the run-up to the fall election.

Tonight is the final night of the Democratic convention. We're taking a look at the "conventions that govern the conventions," everything from roll call votes and speaker order to the careful selection of morning breakfast venues.

GUESTS:

Michael Goldman, political strategist who has advised Pres. Bill Clinton, Gov. Michael Dukakis and Rep. John Tierney.

Jason Zelizer, professor of history and public affairs at Princeton University.