David Tanguay

He Was Elected on My Birthday



Posted: Tuesday, August 26, 2008

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Born on May 29 th . 1917 in Brookline, Mass. ( see biography ) John Fitzgerald Kennedy was elected the 35 th . President of the United States, on November 8, 1960

I remember during his campaign for the presidency I was only eleven years old at the time. I then attended a parochial school (catholic school) Kennedy being the first catholic running for the presidency was about to make history, by winning the election of commander in chief.

I suppose his religion was a major factor, which motivated me to want to see him elected as president. I would walk the streets with a friend of mine singing this little jingle "Kennedy's in the white house waiting to be elected. Nixon's in the trash can waiting to be collected" in fact he was elected on my 12 th . birthday.

John F. Kennedy was sworn in as the 35th President at noon on January 20, 1961. In his inaugural address he spoke of the need for all Americans to be active citizens, famously saying, "Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country." He also asked the nations of the world to join together to fight what he called the "common enemies of man: tyranny, poverty, disease, and war itself." In closing, he expanded on his desire for greater internationalism: " Finally, whether you are citizens of America or citizens of the world, ask of us the same high standards of strength and sacrifice which we ask of you.

Kennedy dealt with major issues such as the Cuban missile crisis he created the Peace Corps. In





Kennedy meeting with Nikita Khrushchev

domestic affairs he dealt with issues such as civil rights, immigration, the space program.

On November 22, 1963, he was assassinated in Dallas Texas while on a political trip. His death brought grief to many who loved and admired the man. However, life went on may we as American citizens never have to witness another political assassination.



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Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)
» left by Susan Thom
 3 years 165 days ago.
175 fans.
hi david,
 
this was such a well written article. you bring up good points. i'm still picturing you singing walking down the street. i hope your wish is everyone's wish, and all our prayers that God will protect a man just trying to do his job, will be heard. thanks for sharing,
 
best regards,
 
sue
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» left by David Tanguay 3 years 165 days ago.
185 fans.
Thank you Susan, and the best of luck to you in your upcoming trial dates.
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