John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address by John F. Kennedy

“John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address,” delivered during the tense climate of the early 1960s Cold War, is a landmark speech that symbolized a pivotal transfer of U.S. presidential power. Kennedy’s address highlights key themes of freedom, shared responsibility, and global unity, underscoring the ideals of democracy and international collaboration. In his powerful words, Kennedy calls on citizens to uphold and defend liberty and identifies the urgent global challenges of tyranny, poverty, disease, and conflict. He pledges U.S. support to allies and commitment to aid oppressed populations, stressing that true advancement comes through collective cooperation and sacrifice. The speech reaches its inspiring conclusion with the iconic call to action, urging people not to ask what their country can do for them, but rather what they can contribute to their country and the world, fostering a unifying sense of purpose.