Today marks the 50th anniversary of the assassination of John F. Kennedy, the 35th president of the United States. The media has been covering the milestone in many programs and blogs over the last month. Many have been taken with reviewing, or reliving that time. Not being a part of my recollection, I only have these to inform my perspective of that historical time. The reason his presidency had such an impact on the country has much to do with how the public was able to follow JFK.
The Newseum in Washington, DC has a current exhibition specifically showing the reporting of events at that time. Moreover they have the technology that allowed the reporting. There are also exhibits that showcase the public life of JFK in pictures and and film. His rise in the national consciousness grew in particular with the medium of television. Additionally his use of the media in photo and film contributes to his legacy. It undoubtedly ushered in a game-changing era in how we consume news. Also it increased the speed with which we receive our news. His whole public and what he wanted of his private life has been preserved. They can be relived in a fidelity that is much better than had been available to a president.
Seeing the photos of his home life in Massachusetts initially had the most impact. Much like today’s social media, authentic images of a personality got traction immediately. Additionally seeing them in the White House, and traveling the country brought the public in. They showed a man transitioning from candidate, to senator, to President and how this made changes to his family. It was a shortened presidency, and one that continues to captivate 50 years after it ended.
Arlington National Cemetery
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