American History Hit
Bobby Kennedy: Assassination of a Future President
Mar 31, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Patricia Sullivan, a history professor at the University of South Carolina and author of "Justice Rising: Robert Kennedy’s America in Black and White," explores Robert F. Kennedy’s ambitious 1968 presidential campaign and its tragic end. She discusses the politically charged climate of the era, influenced by the Vietnam War and civil rights, as well as RFK's evolving identity after his brother’s assassination. The conversation also delves into the enduring legacy of Kennedy's ideals, emphasizing hope amid chaos and the implications of his untimely death.
40:49
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Quick takeaways
- Bobby Kennedy's 1968 presidential campaign sought to unify a divided nation amid civil rights struggles and the Vietnam War.
- His assassination after a significant primary victory left the country questioning the future of leadership and potential for change.
Deep dives
The Context of RFK's Campaign
Robert F. Kennedy entered the presidential race in 1968 during a chaotic period marked by civil rights struggles, urban riots, and the Vietnam War. His campaign was a response to the national anguish and division driven by the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and his brother John F. Kennedy. Kennedy aimed to unify a fractured nation while addressing critical issues such as racial equality, economic justice, and the anti-war movement. His evolving candidacy represented not just a political ambition but a cultural movement that sought to heal the wounds of the era.
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