Having looked at JFK’s general life overview and Navy time in part 1, let’s now embark on his beginnings in politics as well as road to presidency.
Beginnings in Politics
After having left the Navy in 1944 and abandoned plans to become a journalist, jack began preparation to join politics. He was back to Boston, eying the Congress seat in 1946. Winning the nomination wasn’t an easy task for him as he was a moderately conservative Democrat. In addition, he enjoyed the support of his father’s fortune. At the age 29, be became the youngest Congressman in January 1947. It took no time to attract attention as well as criticism from the older members of the Washington establishment as a result of his youthful and informal style.
He was again reelected to the House of Representatives in 1948 and 1950. His career went a notch higher in 1952 after successfully won the Senate seat. He beat the Republican incumbent Henry Cabot Lodge Jr, reports History.
JFK’s life became less in September 12th 1953 as he got engaged to the beautiful socialite and journalist Jacqueline (Jackie) Lee Bouvier. He then underwent a back surgery two years later on. It was during his recovery period from the surgery that he wrote the record-selling “Profiles in Courage.”
It was later on revealed that the book was hugely contributed by Kennedy’s longtime aide, Theodore Sorenson.
JF Kennedy’s Road to the Presidency
Via History
JF Kennedy’s Road to the Presidency
In 1956, JFK was close to getting his party’s nomination ticket as Vice President to Adlai Stevenson. Four years later in 1960, he announced that he would contest for the presidency. He won the primaries and Lyndon Johnson of Texas became his running mate.
He however did not have it light in the general election as he faced off with Republican opponent, Richard Nixon, a two-term Vice President under the popular Dwight D. Eisenhower. He participated in the first ever televised debate in which he won the hearts of many, thanks to his young, energetic offering. His performance was also remarkable.
Kennedy won the November elections, but with a narrow margin of 120,000 out of about 70 million votes cast. That made him the youngest US President and first Roman Catholic.
The newly elected president gave his inaugural address on 20th January 1960, calling upon all Americans to unite in fighting the cold war against Communism around the world. His landmark remark “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country” is famously quoted by most political orators.
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