John F. Kennedy

John F. Kennedy home, Brookline, Massachusetts LCCN2011630152.tif

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TheKennedyFamily1

PT-109 crew

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Lt. John F. Kennedy aboard the PT-109 - JFKPOF-132-012-p0113 (restored)

Portrait of congressional freshman class of 1947

John F. Kennedy (May 29, 1917 – November 22, 1963), often referred to by his initials JFK, was the 35th President of the United States, serving from January 1961 until his assassination in November 1963. Kennedy was a member of the Democratic Party and is seen as an icon of American liberalism. During his presidency, Kennedy navigated the country through the Cold War tensions, most notably during the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Bay of Pigs Invasion, and the early stages of the Vietnam War. He also spearheaded major legislative initiatives, including the New Frontier program and the establishment of the Peace Corps.

Early Life and Education

John Fitzgerald Kennedy was born in Brookline, Massachusetts, to Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy. He was the second of nine children in a wealthy and politically influential family. Kennedy was educated at private schools including the Choate School in Connecticut before attending Harvard University, where he graduated in 1940 with a degree in international affairs.

Military Service

Following his graduation from Harvard, Kennedy joined the United States Navy in 1941. During World War II, he commanded a series of PT boats in the Pacific Theater. His most notable military achievement came in 1943 when, after his boat PT-109 was rammed by a Japanese destroyer, Kennedy displayed leadership and courage in rescuing his crew. For his heroism, he received the Navy and Marine Corps Medal and a Purple Heart.

Political Career

Kennedy's political career began in 1946 when he was elected to the United States House of Representatives, representing Massachusetts's 11th congressional district. After serving three terms in the House, he was elected to the United States Senate in 1952. As a senator, Kennedy authored several pieces of legislation and was known for his stance on labor and welfare issues.

Presidency

Kennedy won the 1960 presidential election against Richard Nixon in one of the closest elections in American history. As president, Kennedy faced a number of foreign crises, especially in Cuba and Berlin. Domestically, he advocated for civil rights, education, and health care reform, though many of his proposals were not passed until after his death.

Assassination

On November 22, 1963, Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas. Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested for the crime but was killed two days later by Jack Ruby before he could stand trial. The Warren Commission concluded in 1964 that Oswald acted alone, though various theories have since emerged.

Legacy

Kennedy's legacy is marked by his inspirational rhetoric, commitment to public service, and the vision of progress he had for the United States. His presidency is often idealized, and he remains an enduring symbol of American idealism and hope.

See Also

• Lyndon B. Johnson
• Cuban Missile Crisis
• Civil Rights Movement
• Space Race

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