Remember When: President Kennedy's Assassination and Legacy
This week marks the 60th anniversary of the tragic event that changed the course of history—the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. On November 22, 1963, President Kennedy was fatally shot while riding in an open-car motorcade in downtown Dallas, Texas, sending shockwaves across the nation and the world.
The news of President Kennedy's death brought the country to a standstill. People openly wept, crowds gathered in public places to watch television coverage, and traffic came to a halt as the sorrowful news spread. Schools dismissed their students early, reflecting the profound impact of this national tragedy.
The assassination dissolved differences among people as shock and sorrow became a common theme. Within 40 minutes of the first report, the television audience doubled, reaching 70% by early evening. All three major U.S. television networks suspended their regular schedules for 70 hours, creating the longest uninterrupted news event on American TV until 9/11.
Even Barry Goldwater, the eventual Republican nominee in the 1964 presidential election, considered abandoning his campaign due to his admiration for Kennedy. The event left a lasting impression globally, akin to the attacks on Pearl Harbor and September 11.
To honor this significant event, Nat Geo and The History Channel are airing special programming. Nat Geo's "JFK: One Day in America" explores the day of the assassination and its surrounding days in hour-long episodes. History's "Kennedy" chronicles JFK's life and legacy across eight episodes, available on various streaming services.
President Kennedy's legacy is multifaceted. He inspired a generation to engage in political and social action, advocating for equal rights and opportunities. His presidency achieved notable milestones, including the establishment of the Peace Corps, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, the Alliance for Progress, and the successful goal of landing a man on the moon with the Apollo 11 mission.
Beyond these accomplishments, Kennedy played a pivotal role in transforming American politics. His presidency marked the beginning of television's impact on voters and the norm of extended election campaigns. As we reflect on the 60th anniversary, let's remember the enduring legacy of a leader who inspired change and shaped the course of history.