Many Americans remember November 22, 1963, as one of the saddest days in their country's history. On that date, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. He and wife Jacqueline were on a trip to Dallas, Texas. Cheering crowds greeted them as they rode in an open car through the streets.
Suddenly, shots rang out. The President was hit. He was rushed to Parkland Memorial Hospital and pronounced dead. About an hour later, the police arrested Lee Harvey Oswald for the murder.
A PAINFUL DAY
When word spread that President Kennedy had been shot, Americans cried in shock and disbelief. "It was a painful day for the American public," David Lewis, a professor of American politics at Princeton University, told TFK. "It shook people's sense of security. They felt their hopes had been dashed."
Now, 40 years later, Americans will mark the anniversary of Kennedy's death by honoring his accomplishments as the 35th President. Kennedy was the youngest man ever to be elected U.S. President.
Some critics argue that Kennedy didn't do enough during his three years in office to be called one of the country's great Presidents. But to many, he was a hero. He acted on new ideas for helping those in need. He started the Food Stamps program to help poor families buy groceries. He created the Peace Corps, a volunteer program that helps communities in poor countries across the world.
A SPECIAL PLACE IN OUR HEARTS
As Americans reflect on the Kennedy presidency, photographs of the young First Family that have never been published before are being released this month. The pictures offer glimpses into some of the private moments the Kennedys enjoyed while in the White House and at their own homes.
"Kennedy captured America's imagination," Lewis says. "He was young and handsome, and he and his wife were glamorous. He will always have a special place in the hearts of Americans."