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 to assure the survival and the success of liberty.This much we pledge — and more.To those old allies whose cultural and spiritual origins we share, we pledge the loyalty of faithful friends. United there is little we cannot do in a host of cooperative ventures. Divided there is little we can do — for we dare not meet a powerful challenge at odds and split asunder…In the long history of the world, only a few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour of maximum danger. I do not shrink from this responsibility — I welcome it. I do not believe that any of us would exchange places with any other people or any other generation. The energy, the faith, the devotion which we bring to this endeavor will light our country and all who serve it — and the glow from that fire can truly light the world. And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.

Question

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 to assure the survival and the success of liberty.This much we pledge — and more.To those old allies whose cultural and spiritual origins we share, we pledge the loyalty of faithful friends. United there is little we cannot do in a host of cooperative ventures. Divided there is little we can do — for we dare not meet a powerful challenge at odds and split asunder…In the long history of the world, only a few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour of maximum danger. I do not shrink from this responsibility — I welcome it. I do not believe that any of us would exchange places with any other people or any other generation. The energy, the faith, the devotion which we bring to this endeavor will light our country and all who serve it — and the glow from that fire can truly light the world. And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.

In a paragraph of 4–5 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.

Answer 1

John F. Kennedy believed that it was the responsibility of all Americans to defend and uphold freedom and liberty, regardless of the challenges or sacrifices that may be required. In his inaugural address, he spoke of the need for unity among allies in order to tackle powerful challenges together, emphasizing the importance of cooperation and solidarity. Kennedy's policy goals differed from those of his predecessors in that he called for a more active and engaged role in promoting freedom and democracy around the world, pledging unwavering support for friends and opposition to foes. He famously urged Americans to "ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country," emphasizing the importance of individual responsibility and service to the nation.