John F Kennedy's Influence

American’s Inspiration- John F. Kennedy John Fitzgerald Kennedy was the thirty fifth president of the United States of America from 1961 until his death in 1963. Although Kennedy was the youngest president ever elected, he was also the youngest to die. America changed even before his assassination. Kennedy was improving the lives of millions of Americans. As an adolescent, Kennedy was not at the top of his class. He was constantly fatally ill, and missed school many times. However, Kennedy succeeded and attended Princeton University and Harvard University. In both high school and college, he only excelled at the class in which he enjoyed. JFK was very sociable. He was popular amongst his classmates and was known for his charisma. After
graduating college in 1940, Kennedy joined the Navy, where he was named a hero after saving many lives.
While patrolling a torpedo boat in the South Pacific in 1943, they were attacked. Injured Kennedy led the survivors to land, where they were rescued soon after. He had saved their lives. Kennedy didn’t stop there. Determined to make an impact - now in the political world, he ran for and won a seat as a senator. Kennedy ran for president against Richard Nixon in 1960. Kennedy, known for his smile and charm, appeared on television against his opponent. Kennedy was extremely confident, calm, and vigorous compared to Nixon, who was tense and prosaic. In his Inaugural Address, Kennedy inspired Americans with the quote, "And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country. My fellow citizens of the world: Ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man." Like all the presidents, Kennedy wanted to lead America and make it a better nation. As the 35th president, Kennedy began his reign. Kennedy believed that the fate of America lied in its’ people’s hands. The Cold War (1945-1991) was the motivation for Peace Crops. After JFK realized thousands of talented scientists, engineers, doctors, and physicists
were all willing to dedicate their lives to world communism, he believed that he could motivate Americans. In 1961, he created the Peace Crops which had three main goals. Peace Crops was responsible for aiding foreign nations, helping them understand America’s culture, and helping America understand other cultures. He was determined to intertwine America with its allies. Although it was primarily an idea, 1,000 students had signed a petition to dedicate their lives to Peace Crops. They were offering to live and work in nations all over the world to make peace and help develop countries. In addition, Peace Crops cares for the environment, which is a major part of our everyday life. Foreign countries such as India, Burma, and Ghana all invited Peace Crops volunteers to their countries. Although critics ridiculed Kennedy’s idea, Peace Crops bloomed and is continuing to thrive. As of today, over 210,000 Americans have lent a hand serving 139 countries. 8,703 volunteers are currently a part of Peace Crops. Kennedy’s ideas kept Americans generous. Volunteers range from all over America, between the age of 19 to 82. Americans are lending a hand to those in need. Kennedy was also a part of the civil rights movement. Freedom Riders of the 20th century were activists who vowed to break the segregation codes that have been around for years. They were groups of both black and white men and women who rode buses where they were discriminated from. Many of these activists were not only threatened, but beaten. Kennedy sent in U.S. Marshals to protect them. JFK also sent in the National Guard in order to protect two African American students. The two students enrolled at the University of Alabama, where they were discriminated against. Governor of Alabama, George Wallace’s words, “segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever,” stood at the door of the the university. The two students were not allowed in because of their color. As president, Kennedy forced Wallace to allow the two African American students into the school. Eventually, Kennedy discussed the racially motivated incidents and contemplated a Civil Rights Bill. He pushed for the Civil Rights Act, which was ratified a year later. The Civil Rights Act of 1864 outlawed segregation in public places including facilities, restaurants, stores, and schools. Discrimination based on race, color, sex, and religion were also considered illegal. In the 21st century, segregation has faded and is not a major conflict anymore. Due to JFK and his civil rights movement, different ethnicities are all able live amongst each other. Stores, offices, restaurants, schools, and other public facilities are available to everyone today. John Fitzgerald Kennedy was assassination in 1963. As president of America, Kennedy resolved domestic issues and was involved in foreign affairs. JFK was part of the movement towards civil rights. He helped put a stop to horrifying discrimination. He also strengthened the relationships between America and countless other countries. With multiple allies, America was safer. I chose John Fitzgerald Kennedy because his position in life enabled him to make a better world. Although Kennedy was not originally from America, there has never been a well qualified has left an impact on not only American history. Peace Crops is an extraordinary program that has been excelling, Peace Crops created many friendly relationships between America and other countries. It has given Americans the ability to aid those in need, and also lend a hand to the environments needed. Kennedy is a role model because he knew that Americans had the potential to help, and he was there to give the extra push. Kennedy is responsible for changing and eventually benefiting the lives of thousands of people.

Citations-
BOB KERR Journal-Bulletin, Staff W.
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