Urgent Update: Chicago’s Historic ‘Dewey Defeats Truman’ Headlines

UPDATE: Today marks a significant date in Chicago history, with the spotlight on the infamous headline “Dewey Defeats Truman” that rocked the nation on November 3, 1948. As the city reflects on this pivotal moment, the Tribune archives reveal a series of events that have shaped Chicago’s political landscape over the years.

The Tribune was under intense pressure on election night in 1948. With no results available, the newspaper boldly predicted that Republican candidate Thomas E. Dewey would defeat the incumbent, Harry S. Truman. The erroneous headline, which became one of the most famous blunders in journalism, was printed in a single edition, capturing the moment’s urgency and drama.

In a stark reminder of the city’s tumultuous past, we also look back at other significant events that occurred on this date. In 1863, the collapse of the iron bridge at Rush Street sent 100 cattle and a horse and buggy into the Chicago River, creating chaos and horror among bystanders. This event marked a dark chapter in the city’s infrastructure history.

Fast forward to 1983, when civil rights leader Jesse Jackson announced his candidacy for president. His run was significant, as he garnered over 3 million votes in the Democratic primaries, ultimately placing third behind Senator Gary Hart and former Vice President Walter Mondale. Jackson’s candidacy was a landmark moment for African American representation in politics.

Another milestone occurred in 1992 when Ald. Luis Gutierrez became Illinois’ first Latino congressman. Serving nearly 26 years, Gutierrez was a vocal advocate for Puerto Rican rights and a critic of the Trump administration’s response to Hurricane Maria. His legacy includes a strong commitment to social justice, along with a history of introducing articles of impeachment against Trump in 2017.

As we reflect on these key moments in Chicago’s history, the impact is still felt today. The Tribune’s archives serve as a powerful reminder of the challenges and achievements that have defined our city.

For those interested in more vintage Chicago stories, the Tribune offers resources like the free Vintage Chicago Tribune newsletter and a dedicated social media group focused on local history.

Want to share your thoughts or memories related to these historical events? Connect with us at [email protected] and [email protected].

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to explore Chicago’s rich history and its relevance to current events.