homework
1. Citing his speech, what does Kennedy say about civil rights in his address? What programs, initiatives, etc. does he mention?
Kennedy stated that this country is still founded on “the belief that the rights of man come not from the generosity of the state but from the hand of God.” He also said that there is a new generation that will not stand to see those rights taken away from the people and that they will be committed to keeping those rights in the United States as well as the rest of the world. As for other nations dealing with civil rights, he said “Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty.”
2. What kind of foreign policy is Kennedy indication he will adopt in his address? Cite his address, noting any commitments, promise, or initiatives he mentions.
Kennedy said that he and the rest of America will try their best to provide aid for countries in need in the east and he especially pledged to mexico and the South American countries that there would be a new alliance “to assist free men and free governments in casting off the chains of poverty.” He also said that he would oppose aggression or subversion anywhere in the Americas.
3. Based on his speech, how do you think other countries will respond, especially the U.S.S.R?
most developing and democratic countries will probably support Kennedy’s plans and be happy with the speech. The communist countries, especially the U.S.S.R will be very offended and unsupportive.
4. Compare Kennedy’s Inaugural Address to his administration. How closely does his administration mirror or match his address? Create a comparison of specific events from his presidency to specific parts of his speech.
In his speech, Kennedy stated that he would develop a strong alliance with the countries south of the US boarder. In his presidency his attempts failed because South America feared the US’s power and resented his “Alliance for Progress” feeling it was not helpful enough. As for civil rights, he was a little bit more successful at accomplishing his goals, though he got much help from Martin Luther King. He said that he would do any thing possible to “assure the survival and the success of liberty.” At first he was a bit reluctant to deal with civil rights issues directly, feeling that his medical and education bills would help blacks as well as impoverished and elderly whites. This soon changed however due to the injustices in places such as Alabama and Mississippi.
posted by Sarah @ 7:52 PM
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