COUNSELOR

1. Sorensen's unique perspective as Kennedy's closest advisor

"For eleven years I loved him, respected him, and believed in him, and I still do."

Unparalleled access. Theodore Sorensen served as John F. Kennedy's closest advisor, speechwriter, and confidant for over a decade. This intimate relationship provided Sorensen with a unique vantage point from which to observe and influence Kennedy's political career, from his time as a Senator to his presidency.

Collaborative partnership. Sorensen's role extended far beyond that of a typical aide. He was instrumental in shaping Kennedy's policies, crafting his speeches, and managing crises. Their partnership was characterized by mutual respect, shared ideals, and a deep understanding of each other's strengths.

Behind-the-scenes influence. As Special Counsel to the President, Sorensen was involved in nearly every major decision and event of Kennedy's administration. His insights offer a rare glimpse into the inner workings of one of the most iconic presidencies in American history.

2. The Kennedy family's profound influence on American politics

"Like me, John Kennedy grew up in a large and loving family that taught, inspired, and helped him along the way."

Political dynasty. The Kennedy family's impact on American politics cannot be overstated. John F. Kennedy's presidency was just one part of a larger family legacy that included:

• His father, Joseph P. Kennedy, former Ambassador to the UK
• His brother Robert F. Kennedy, Attorney General and later Senator
• His brother Edward "Ted" Kennedy, long-serving Senator

Family dynamics. Sorensen provides insight into the complex relationships within the Kennedy family, highlighting how their personal bonds and rivalries influenced their political careers and decisions.

Enduring legacy. The Kennedy family's commitment to public service and their charismatic appeal continued to shape American politics long after JFK's assassination, inspiring generations of politicians and citizens alike.

3. Civil rights: Kennedy's evolution and pivotal moments

"We are at the most dangerous and critical phase of the struggle for Negro rights."

Cautious beginnings. Initially, Kennedy approached civil rights issues with political caution, concerned about alienating Southern Democrats and jeopardizing his legislative agenda.

Turning point. The June 11, 1963 speech on civil rights marked a pivotal moment in Kennedy's presidency and the civil rights movement. Key elements included:

• A moral framing of civil rights as a national issue
• Proposal for comprehensive civil rights legislation
• Personal commitment to the cause, despite political risks

Legacy. Kennedy's evolving stance on civil rights set the stage for the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Voting Rights Act of 1965, passed under President Johnson but initiated during Kennedy's administration.

4. The Cuban Missile Crisis: Leadership under extreme pressure

"In the words of the old spiritual, on that Saturday Kennedy and Khrushchev literally 'held the whole world in their hands.'"

High stakes. The Cuban Missile Crisis of October 1962 brought the world to the brink of nuclear war. Kennedy faced immense pressure to respond decisively to the Soviet deployment of nuclear missiles in Cuba without triggering a catastrophic conflict.

Decision-making process. Sorensen provides a firsthand account of the ExComm (Executive Committee of the National Security Council) meetings, revealing:

• The range of options considered, from diplomatic pressure to military strikes
• The intense debates and shifting positions among advisors
• Kennedy's calm leadership and ability to navigate conflicting advice

Peaceful resolution. Through a combination of public pressure, private diplomacy, and strategic restraint, Kennedy successfully negotiated the removal of Soviet missiles from Cuba, averting a potential nuclear catastrophe.

5. Speechwriting: Crafting Kennedy's iconic addresses

"A great speech is great because of the strong ideas conveyed, the principles, the values, the decisions."

Collaborative process. Sorensen details the intricate process of crafting Kennedy's speeches, emphasizing the close collaboration between the president and his team.

Key elements. Kennedy's most memorable speeches were characterized by:

• Clear, concise language
• Moral framing of issues
• Historical references and literary allusions
• Calls to action and appeals to shared values

Iconic moments. Sorensen provides behind-the-scenes accounts of crafting famous speeches, including:

• The 1961 Inaugural Address ("Ask not what your country can do for you...")
• The 1963 Civil Rights Address
• The American University Speech on peace

6. Religious barriers: Overcoming prejudice in the 1960 election

"Strange as it seems today, the chief obstacle to John F. Kennedy's nomination and election as president of the United States in 1960 was based not on doubts about his age or experience, or his controversial family, or his voting record in the United States Senate, or even his health. It was based largely on his Roman Catholic faith."

Unprecedented challenge. As the first Catholic nominee of a major party, Kennedy faced deep-seated prejudice and suspicion from many Protestant voters.

Strategic response. Kennedy's campaign addressed the religion issue through:

• Direct engagement with Protestant leaders
• The landmark speech to the Greater Houston Ministerial Association
• Emphatic commitment to the separation of church and state

Lasting impact. Kennedy's successful navigation of religious prejudice paved the way for greater acceptance of religious diversity in American politics.

7. Kennedy's legislative agenda: Balancing idealism and pragmatism

"Kennedy believed that every voter was first and foremost an American, moved by appeals to service and the national interest, not appeals to religious prejudice, material selfishness, or regional parochialism."

Ambitious goals. Kennedy's New Frontier agenda aimed to address a wide range of domestic issues, including:

• Civil rights
• Economic growth
• Education reform
• Healthcare (including Medicare)
• Poverty reduction

Political realities. Sorensen details the challenges Kennedy faced in implementing his agenda, including:

• A conservative coalition in Congress
• Resistance from Southern Democrats on civil rights
• Cold War tensions impacting domestic priorities

Legislative strategy. Kennedy's approach balanced idealism with pragmatism, often prioritizing achievable goals over sweeping reforms to maintain political momentum.

8. Personal relationships: The human side of political power

"JFK never pretended that he was middle-class. I enjoyed the tale of his 1946 Boston appearance in his first campaign at a Democratic meeting in which many other local candidates were introduced ahead of him—each described by the chairman as 'a young fellow who came up the hard way.' Finally, when JFK was ushered to the podium, he began his speech by declaring: 'I seem to be the only person here who did not come up the hard way.'"

Family dynamics. Sorensen provides intimate portraits of the Kennedy family, revealing the complex relationships that shaped JFK's personal and political life.

Key relationships. The book details Kennedy's interactions with:

• His wife, Jacqueline Kennedy
• His brothers, Robert and Edward Kennedy
• His father, Joseph P. Kennedy
• Close advisors and staff members

Personal qualities. Sorensen highlights Kennedy's human qualities, including his wit, charm, intellectual curiosity, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

9. Foreign policy challenges: Navigating the Cold War era

"Kennedy was more prepared to lead in foreign policy and national security matters than most of his successors, possibly excepting the first President Bush."

Global context. Kennedy's presidency was defined by Cold War tensions, including:

• The Berlin Crisis
• The Bay of Pigs fiasco
• The Cuban Missile Crisis
• Escalating involvement in Vietnam

Diplomatic approach. Kennedy sought to balance firmness with flexibility in dealing with the Soviet Union and other global challenges.

Initiatives. Key foreign policy initiatives included:

• The Alliance for Progress in Latin America
• The Peace Corps
• The Limited Nuclear Test Ban Treaty

10. The assassination's impact: A legacy cut short

"John F. Kennedy's speeches have been listed among the best in the twentieth century."

Shock and grief. Sorensen provides a personal account of the immediate aftermath of Kennedy's assassination, reflecting on the profound loss felt by those closest to him.

Unfinished agenda. The book discusses the impact of Kennedy's death on his legislative and foreign policy initiatives, many of which were later pursued by President Johnson.

Enduring legacy. Despite his short tenure, Kennedy's presidency left a lasting impact on American politics and culture, including:

• Inspiration for public service (Peace Corps, VISTA)
• Renewed emphasis on youth and vigor in leadership
• Commitment to space exploration (Apollo program)
• Groundwork for major civil rights legislation

Last updated: December 13, 2024