John F. Kennedy's Inaugural Address

Opening Oath

• Speaker: John Fitzgerald Kennedy
• Oath: Faithfully executes the office of President and will preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.

Key Themes

Celebration of Freedom

• Observed not as a victory of party, but as a celebration of freedom and a symbol of renewal and change.
• Reaffirmation of the revolutionary belief that rights come from God, not the state.

Passing the Torch

• The torch is passed to a new generation of Americans who are seasoned by war and committed to human rights.
• Emphasis on commitment to liberty and human rights globally.

Global Commitments

• Allies: Loyalty to old allies; unity is stressed for cooperative ventures.
• New States: Support for new states' independence and freedom.
• Global Poverty: Commitment to help those struggling with poverty, emphasizing it is the right thing to do.

Regional and International Relations

• Sister Republics: Commitment to the Americas to oppose aggression and promote independence.
• United Nations: Support the UN as a peacekeeping force and prevent it from becoming just a forum for invective.
• Adversaries: Request for mutual peace efforts, strength in arms for deterrence, and negotiation without fear.

Call for Global Cooperation

• Encouragement to explore common problems and solutions including arms control, scientific exploration, and peace initiatives.
• Creation of a world based on justice and security for all.

National and Personal Responsibility

• Citizens called to support national efforts for freedom and bear the burdens of a global struggle against tyranny, poverty, disease, and war.
• Invitation to join a global alliance for a better future.

Historical Context

• Each generation has had to defend freedom; current generation faces maximum danger.
• Kennedy welcomes the responsibility and calls for energy, faith, and devotion.

Notable Quotes

• "Ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country."
• "Ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man."

Conclusion

• Emphasis on personal and collective responsibility for freedom.
• Calls for high standards of strength and sacrifice among citizens.
• Acknowledgment of divine support and the necessity of human effort.