The Wall Street Journal has a feature on their website that allows you to explore the history of the Democratic and Republican conventions, including information about the platforms for both parties over the years. The first Democratic Convention was held in 1832, but their first platform wasn’t created until 1840. The first Republican Convention was held in 1856, and their platform called for the prohibition of polygamy and slavery in the territories. Very interesting to look at the parties and their evolution since their formation.