Although he served as President of the United States, John Fitzgerald Kennedy was also a cultural icon. Young, charismatic, and often seen with a confident smile, he stood out from most presidents who came before - and after - him. His life, and especially the tragic way it ended, felt like something out of a movie. In this article, we’ll explore some facts about John F. Kennedy, read some of his most memorable quotes, and, of course, take a look at a few fascinating postage stamps that feature him.
John F. Kennedy was born on May 29, 1917, in Brookline, Massachusetts. His father, Joseph Kennedy, was a successful businessman and diplomat, and his mother, Rose, came from a well-known political family in Boston. Politics ran in the family - many of his brothers and sisters would also become important public figures in the years to come.
John F. Kennedy (1917-1963) Memorial
United States – 1964/05/29
During World War II, Kennedy served in the U.S. Navy and commanded a small patrol boat called PT-109. In 1943, his boat was hit by a Japanese ship and destroyed, but Kennedy helped his injured crew swim to safety. His courage and leadership during the rescue made headlines and earned him national respect.
"When power leads man toward arrogance, poetry reminds him of his limitations. When power narrows the area of man's concern, poetry reminds him of the richness and diversity of existence. When power corrupts, poetry cleanses." - John F. Kennedy
After returning from the war, Kennedy entered politics and was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1946. He represented Massachusetts and served three terms before running for the Senate. In 1952, he won a Senate seat, defeating a well-known Republican opponent.
United States – 1967/05/29
In 1960, at just 43 years old, John F. Kennedy was elected President of the United States. He narrowly beat Richard Nixon in one of the closest elections in U.S. history. His youth, energy, and strong speaking skills helped him connect with voters across the country.
“Our problems are man-made, therefore they may be solved by man. And man can be as big as he wants. No problem of human destiny is beyond human beings.” - John F. Kennedy
While in office, Kennedy dealt with several serious challenges. He faced tensions with the Soviet Union during the Bay of Pigs invasion and the Cuban Missile Crisis, which brought the world close to nuclear war. At the same time, he supported the space race, began pushing for civil rights, and created the Peace Corps to help people in developing countries.
John F. Kennedy 1917-1963
50th Death Anniversary of President John F. Kennedy
Ireland – 2013/06/06
On November 22, 1963, while riding in a motorcade through Dallas, Texas, President Kennedy was shot and killed. His sudden death shocked the world and left the nation in mourning. Even today, his assassination remains one of the most talked-about events in American history.
Recently "the Trump administration released thousands of pages of files concerning the assassination of John F Kennedy, the 35th president who was shot dead in Dallas, Texas, in November 1963." - theguardian.com
“Mankind must put an end to war before war puts an end to mankind.” - John F. Kennedy
Today, we took a moment to remember John F. Kennedy, one of the most charismatic presidents in U.S. history. If you’re interested in more articles that explore the connection between philately and famous figures, be sure to check out the selections below.
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