Universal Fly on the Wall

John F. Kennedy is often regarded as one of the greatest presidents due to his popularity and relationship with the public during a time in which people were most fearful of world catastrophe by means of the disastrous Cold War. The public was able to trust him and remain hopeful because of his leadership, and his iconic quote “ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country” opened up a positive relationship between him and the American people. Despite the many positive qualities of Kennedy, he made many failed and aggressive choices that are largely swept under the rug—so what are the reasons why he is so overwhelmingly praised and well-respected?

As Kennedy was in office, the influence of the Cold War caused the American people to become highly paranoid and worried. Kennedy was able to spark a sense of confidence and determination in the American people, which had not been felt by people for a long time.  Part of how he was able to ensure a trusting relationship with his audience was by means of his rhetoric and speaking skills. As one of the first politicians to be broadcasted on live TV on such a wide scale, Kennedy was able to present and sustain an image of boldness and courage.  Even before he reached the podium, he made sure that he put forward a clean-shaven, well-groomed image, which increased his physical appeal. Direct eye contact with his audience created a great connection between him and the people watching, since they knew he was speaking to the American people. With speaking tactics such as controlled volume and repetition of ideas such as “freedom” and “peace”), he left a lasting impression on his audience. During his inauguration, Kennedy was able to increase his public appeal and inspire hope and optimism to onlookers who, for the most part, had a source of paranoia and fear due to the events around them. His ability to project a charismatic and optimistic tone to public audiences created this idea that he was a strong, young, and bold leader who was strongly effective at running the country. 

Despite the fact that Kennedy was so well perceived by the public, there were also unsuccessful choices under his leadership that are often overlooked. The famous Bay of Pigs invasion is a well-known failed attempt to overthrow Cuba and contain its leader under Kennedy’s administration, but  this major shortcoming is ignored. People regard his biggest success as president to be  his resolving of the Cuban Missile Crisis, even though this was in response to the same issue of containment in Cuba. Since Kennedy showed a high degree of courage as president, people often praised many of his accomplishments over his failures since they wanted to see a president who could deliver bold and tough actions. Whenever positive outcomes were reached under Kennedy’s administration, they would often overshadow his more unsuccessful ones. 

Even modern day, Kennedy is often regarded as respectable and well-accomplished, and  people automatically have a positive impression of him whenever he is mentioned or talked about. The media also played a key role in highlighting his bravery in a time when it was most needed and garnering praise and support. Over the years since JFK, the media has grown in involvement in political figures: those who are presented as personable and energetic are often well-perceived, while those who are hostile and crude are often criticized. 

Despite some unsuccessful moments during Kennedy’s administration, in the big picture, his many accomplishments and successes are important to recognize. It is not often that politicians show so much compassion towards their people while also dealing with many difficult choices and their consequences, and that that has rightfully granted him his positive legacy.