Uploaded October 2013 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
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As the United States faces its first government shutdown of the 21st century, we decided to look back on the last time that this happened. The 1995-96 shutdown lasted 21 days, making it the longest in United States history. Like the current shutdown, it hinged on budgeting disagreements between a Democratic president (Bill Clinton) and congressional Republicans. While the term "Obamacare" wasn't coined until a decade after this story aired, you may recognize some familiar rhetoric from both sides in this archival Video of the Week.
For more excellent footage on political showdowns, contact our helpful staff or browse our website!
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Go to NBCUniversalArchives.com to license any portion of this video.
As the United States faces its first government shutdown of the 21st century, we decided to look back on the last time that this happened. The 1995-96 shutdown lasted 21 days, making it the longest in United States history. Like the current shutdown, it hinged on budgeting disagreements between a Democratic president (Bill Clinton) and congressional Republicans. While the term "Obamacare" wasn't coined until a decade after this story aired, you may recognize some familiar rhetoric from both sides in this archival Video of the Week.
For more excellent footage on political showdowns, contact our helpful staff or browse our website!
Like Us on Facebook.com/NBCUArchives
Follow us on Twitter.com/NBCUArchives
