Who was the first Catholic nominated for President of the United States?

Alfred E. Smith was the first Catholic nominated for President of the United States, achieving this milestone in 1928 when he became the Democratic Party's candidate. His nomination was significant not only for the Catholic community but also for the broader context of American politics, as it marked a pivotal moment in the intersection of religion and politics in the U.S. Smith's candidacy was met with considerable skepticism and opposition due to the prevailing biases against Catholics at the time, with many fearing that his religious affiliation would influence his political decisions.

This moment in history laid the groundwork for future Catholic candidates in American politics, including John F. Kennedy, who later became the first Catholic to be elected to the presidency. The challenges Smith faced during his campaign reflect the societal attitudes of that era and show the evolution of religious acceptance in American political life.