Leaders Under the Lights

In 1960, United States Vice President Richard Nixon and Senator John F Kennedy made history with the first ever presidential TV debate.

The idea was quickly adopted around the world.

But how much do voters really learn from these encounters, and do they ever make the difference between winning and losing?

The BBC's political correspondent Reeta Chakrabarti unearths some memorable moments from the archives.

She also talks to politicians, TV producers, academics and journalists about the heated negotiations, meticulous preparation and sometimes painful gaffes which have had millions glued to their sets at election time.

She also asks what Britain's party leaders can learn.

Producer: Martin Rosenbaum

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in March 2010.