President Kennedy established USAID in 1961 to provide aid to under-resourced governments across the world, which he later called an “essential national commitment.”
Speaking to directors USAID missions in June 1962, #JFKsaid:
“The people who are opposed to aid should realize that this is a very powerful source of strength for us. It permits us to exert influence for the maintenance of freedom. If we were not so heavily involved, our voice would not speak with such vigor.”
New immigrants from other countries must pass a citizenship test to become citizens.
David Rubenstein and Christine Heenan discuss how many native U.S. citizens lack the same basic knowledge and say presidential libraries perform critical functions to our democracy by teaching history and civics.
Watch the full forum at: https://www.jfklibrary.org/events-and-awards/forums/the-highest-calling
The Highest Calling: Conversations on the American Presidency with David M. Rubenstein
For years, bestselling author David M. Rubenstein has distilled the contours of American democracy through conversations with noted leaders and historians. In his recent book The Highest Calling: Conversations on the American Presidency, he offers an enlightening overview of arguably the single most important position in the world - the American presidency - through dialogues with our nation’s presidents and the historians who study them. Rubenstein, the cofounder and cochairman of The Carlyle Group, one of the world’s largest and most successful private equity firms, discusses the book with JFK Library Foundation Board Member Christine Heenan, chief communications officer and executive partner at biotech venture company Flagship Pioneering.
This forum takes place on January 27, 2025.
On January 20, 1961 John F. Kennedy took the oath of office to become the 35th president of the United States. He was the youngest man elected president, as well as the 1st Catholic and the 1st to be born in the 20th century.
What many consider to be the most memorable and enduring section of JFK's inaugural address is his call to Americans to commit themselves to public service: “And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.”
Takeda's Julie Kim addresses new citizens at the JFK Presidential Library
Takeda U.S. Business Unit President Julie Kim addressed new citizens at the JFK Presidential Library:
“The words you have recited have unlocked a new set of choices and responsibilities…What choices will you make to help our country be the best version of itself? How will you help others feel included? Will you vote? Will you serve on a jury if called? Will you volunteer or serve your community or your country in other meaningful ways? We all have unlimited possibility in shaping our future and the future of our country.”
65 years ago on January 2, 1960: Senator John F. Kennedy announced his candidacy for the presidency of the United States.
He would go on to win his party's nomination in July of that year, and in November, be elected president in one of the closest elections in US history.
IFP:83B. Universal Newsreels. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum.
President Kennedy said, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”
Watch a special holiday message from us at the JFK Library and Foundation.
#HappyHolidays #NewYear
Still looking for that special gift for the Kennedy fan in your life?
JFK Library Foundation Executive Director Rachel Flor shares some of her favorite gifts that you can buy today at the JFK Museum Store: https://store.jfklibrary.org/
#HolidayShopping #LastMinuteGiftIdeas
Today is Giving Tuesday! Hear from Rachel Flor, Executive Director of the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation, about the JFK Library and Foundation’s work to reach, inspire, and activate tomorrow’s leaders to public service and civic participation.
Every contribution to the JFK Library Foundation through midnight on Tuesday, December 3rd, will be matched up to $10,000. And—in honor of President Kennedy’s Moonshot spirit and his belief that by coming together, we can rise to meet the greatest challenges of our times, ALL Giving Tuesday donors will receive a special Choose the Moon Inspiration Bracelet from our Museum Store! 🌖
Make your gift today at https://www.jfklibrary.org/givingtuesday
#GivingTuesday
President Kennedy’s state funeral was held on November 25, 1963. Historian Fredrik Logevall describes one of the personal touches Mrs. Kennedy arranged for the ceremony from our special podcast, Let Us Begin.
JFK gets nibled on by a pony (JFKPPP-48, excerpt)
It’s been a week. Here’s JFK getting nibbled on by the pony Leprechaun after running out of sugar cubes.
Film: JFKPPP-48 (excerpt). President's Personal Pictures. Atoka, November 1963: 10-11