Come on and vote for Kennedy
Vote for Kennedy
Keep America strong...
Kennedy, he just keeps rollin' - a -
Kennedy, he just keeps rollin' - a -
Kennedy, he just keeps rollin' along.
{High Hopes - Frank Sinatra}
I've lived in Boston for 7 years (nearly) and finally made it to the JFK Presidential Library and Museum.
The Kennedy influence is still strong in these here parts...JFK's birthplace and childhood home is mere blocks from my apt, his elementary school just down the road, and his grand-nephew is my US Representative. But, I really only knew the history class basics of JFK's presidency - so off to the museum I went.
The visit began with a 20 minute video, narrated with old clips of JFK about his childhood, time in college, the military, and early political career. The film ends as JFK accepts the 1960 Democratic nomination for president. Then you wind your way through the exhibits detailing the election, his inauguration, and all the crucial and fascinating parts of his too short time in office.
I learned so much. I had no idea JFK started the Peace Corps, I had no idea the election was so close, I really got such a better understanding of he Cuban Missile Crisis and what really unfolded in that tense time.
Peppered throughout the exhibit rooms were also bits about Jackie's time as first lady and the overall influence JFK and the Kennedys had on American politics and history (like the Special Olympics). I also loved seeing original copies of his speeches - the font was so large, it was amazing. Some had his last minute hand scribbled edits, too!
His assassination is poignantly presented. Suddenly the White House-esque rooms just stop. There is a narrow black corridor with the date "November 22, 1963" - small video screens line the wall with footage of the funeral. Then you exit out into the stunning atrium and are standing beneath the flag.
It really is a gorgeous space. Overlooking the Harbor - set there because it reminded the family of their Cape compound. So much history in those walls. I really had to wonder where this country would be if JFK had lived and continued to serve as POTUS.
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