Read the excerpt from John F. Kennedy’s inauguration speech in January 1961. Then answer the question.
In a paragraph of 3–5 sentences, describe what John F. Kennedy believed was an important responsibility for all Americans. How were his policy goals different from those of his predecessors? Include specific examples or quotes from the speech.
In his inauguration speech, John F. Kennedy believed that it was an important responsibility for all Americans to work towards a better future for their country. He stressed the need for unity and collective effort in overcoming challenges, stating, "All this will not be finished in the first one hundred days. Nor will it be finished in the first one thousand days, nor in the life of this Administration, nor even perhaps in our lifetime on this planet. But let us begin." His policy goals differed from those of his predecessors in that he emphasized the importance of global cooperation and diplomacy, as seen in his famous line, "Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, in order to assure the survival and the success of liberty." Kennedy believed in a more active approach to international relations and a willingness to make sacrifices for the greater good.
