Brief Summary
John F. Kennedy's inaugural address, delivered on January 20, 1961, is a call to action for both Americans and the global community. Kennedy emphasizes unity, freedom, and the need for cooperation in the face of challenges like poverty, tyranny, and war. He pledges support to allies, new nations, and those struggling for a better life, while also seeking peaceful solutions with adversaries. The speech culminates in a powerful call to service and sacrifice, urging citizens to contribute to the betterment of their country and the world.
- Emphasizes unity and cooperation among nations.
- Calls for action against tyranny, poverty, disease, and war.
- Urges citizens to contribute to their country and the world.
Oath of Office
John F. Kennedy takes the oath of office, pledging to faithfully execute the office of President of the United States and to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution to the best of his ability, concluding with "so help me God."
Celebration of Freedom and Renewal
Kennedy declares the occasion as a celebration of freedom and a symbol of renewal, acknowledging the historical oath he has taken before God, similar to those taken by his predecessors. He notes the world's changed landscape, where humanity now possesses the power to eradicate both poverty and life itself. Kennedy reaffirms the revolutionary beliefs of the nation's forebears, emphasizing that human rights originate from God, not the state, and asserts that Americans are heirs to that revolution.
Commitment to Freedom and Support for Allies
Kennedy announces that the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans, tempered by war and dedicated to preserving human rights. He pledges that the nation will pay any price and bear any burden to ensure the survival and success of liberty, supporting friends and opposing foes. He commits loyalty to old allies, emphasizing the strength found in unity and the weakness in division when facing challenges.
Pledges to New States and Developing Nations
Kennedy pledges to new states that the end of colonial control will not be replaced by another form of tyranny. He states that while the U.S. won't always expect them to agree, it will always support their freedom. To those in struggling nations, he promises assistance in breaking the bonds of misery, not for political gain, but because it is the right thing to do, asserting that a free society must help the poor to save the rich.
Alliance for Progress and Opposition to Aggression
Kennedy offers a special pledge to republics south of the U.S. border, aiming to convert words into actions through a new alliance for progress. This alliance seeks to help free men and governments cast off poverty. He warns that this revolution of hope must not fall prey to hostile powers, and the U.S. will join its neighbors in opposing aggression or subversion in the Americas, ensuring the hemisphere remains independent.
The United Nations and the Quest for Peace
Kennedy renews the pledge of support to the United Nations, calling it the last best hope for peace in an age where war instruments surpass peace instruments. He urges the UN to avoid becoming a mere forum for empty rhetoric, to strengthen its protection of the new and weak, and to expand its influence. To adversary nations, he offers a request to begin a new quest for peace, warning against the dangers of self-destruction unleashed by science.
Negotiation and Cooperation
Kennedy suggests both sides remember that stability isn't weakness and sincerity needs proof. He encourages negotiation without fear and urges both sides to explore uniting problems instead of divisive ones. He calls for serious proposals for arms inspection and control, aiming to bring the power to destroy under the control of all nations. Kennedy proposes invoking science's wonders, exploring the stars, conquering the desert, eradicating disease, and encouraging the arts and commerce together.
A New World of Law and Shared Endeavors
Kennedy urges both sides to unite in heeding the command to undo heavy burdens and free the oppressed. He hopes cooperation can push back suspicion, leading to a new endeavor, not a balance of power, but a world of law where the strong are just, the weak are secure, and peace is preserved. He acknowledges that achieving these goals will take time, possibly beyond his administration or even his lifetime, but emphasizes the importance of beginning the effort.
Call to Service and Sacrifice
Kennedy states that the success of their course depends on the citizens. He notes that each generation has been called to demonstrate national loyalty, and now they are summoned again, not to bear arms, but to endure a long struggle against common enemies like tyranny, poverty, disease, and war. He asks if they will join in this historic effort to assure a more fruitful life for all mankind.
Defending Freedom and Global Citizenship
Kennedy acknowledges the responsibility of defending freedom in a time of maximum danger and welcomes it. He believes that the energy, faith, and devotion they bring will light their country and the world. Kennedy famously implores Americans to ask not what their country can do for them, but what they can do for their country. He extends this challenge to the world, asking what they can do together for the freedom of man.
High Standards and God's Work
Kennedy asks citizens of both America and the world to hold them to high standards of strength and sacrifice. He emphasizes that a good conscience is their only sure reward, with history as the final judge. He urges them to go forth and lead, seeking God's blessing and help, while recognizing that God's work on earth must be their own.
