In this podcast, the hosts discuss the fascination and allure surrounding the Kennedy assassination. They explore JFK's anglophilia and how it influenced his character and aspirations. They also delve into his early life, relationships, and his status as a war hero. Additionally, they recount a harrowing submarine disaster and JFK's path to the vice presidency.
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Quick takeaways
John F. Kennedy's upbringing, education, and early experiences shaped him into a charismatic and ambitious politician.
Kennedy's heroism during World War II, when he saved his crew members despite facing great danger, established him as a war hero.
Despite facing challenges in his personal life, including infidelity, Kennedy's popularity within the Democratic Party grew, making him a frontrunner for the 1960 presidential election.
Deep dives
JFK's Childhood and Upbringing
John F. Kennedy, also known as Jack, is born into a wealthy and influential Irish-American family. His father, Joseph Kennedy, is a successful businessman and former ambassador. Jack is a sickly child, facing various health issues throughout his life. He develops a love for reading and history, particularly fascinated by Winston Churchill and English politics. He attends boarding schools and eventually goes to Harvard University, where he writes a senior thesis on appeasement and the national government. Despite his privileged upbringing, Jack is seen as charming, intelligent, and interested in politics.
JFK's Heroic Service in World War II
During World War II, Jack joins the Navy and becomes a patrol boat commander in the South Pacific. His boat is attacked by a Japanese destroyer, resulting in the deaths of two of his crew members. Jack swims for hours, towing an injured crew member with his teeth, and eventually leads his men to safety on a nearby island. He displays incredible bravery and is hailed as a war hero.
Jack's Rise in Politics and Early Marriage
After the war, Jack enters politics, becoming a congressman and later a senator from Massachusetts. He is known for his charm, wit, and intelligence, making him a popular figure among his colleagues. In 1951, he marries Jacqueline Bouvier, a sophisticated and attractive woman from an upper-class background. The marriage is not without its challenges, as Jack's infidelity becomes a thorn in their relationship. Despite these issues, Jack is seen as a rising star in the Democratic Party.
Near Miss for Vice Presidential Nomination
In 1956, Jack comes close to being chosen as the Democratic vice presidential nominee alongside Adlai Stevenson. However, he narrowly misses out and the nomination goes to Estes Kefauver. This setback doesn't deter Jack, as his popularity and potential as a future presidential candidate continue to grow.
Looking Ahead to the Presidency
As the 1960 presidential election approaches, Jack Kennedy is seen as a frontrunner and a favorite within the Democratic Party. His wartime heroism, political acumen, and charisma make him an appealing candidate. With his Irish Catholic background and progressive ideals, Jack represents a new generation of leadership. The stage is set for Jack Kennedy to make a run at the presidency.
“There were a lot of people who wanted Kennedy dead, a lot of powerful people. There are secrets still being held and I never bought for a minute that Oswald operated alone.”
The assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas on 22nd November 1963 is one of history’s most iconic stories, a moment of terrible innocence lost and a foundational myth for modern America. The tragedy of the murder, coupled with the mystery surrounding it and the glamour of Kennedy himself, have only heightened the enduring fascination with the event. But what really happened in the days before, during and after the assassination? Did Lee Harvey Oswald really act alone? Or was he just a tool for darker forces at play in American politics - or for an international conspiracy at the terrifying height of the Cold War?
Join Dominic and Tom as they launch their epic investigation into the life and death of JFK, beginning with the controversial Kennedy clan, the young ‘Jack’s’ upbringing and the personality of the victim himself. Along the way they discuss his battle with crippling illness, his sexual escapades and his romance with the woman who became his wife, Jacqueline Bouvier.
*Dominic’s book The Fall of the Aztecs is available now from bookshops across the UK - the perfect Christmas present!*
Twitter:
@TheRestHistory
@holland_tom
@dcsandbrook
Producer: Theo Young-Smith
Executive Producers: Jack Davenport + Tony Pastor
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