John F. Kennedy: An American Icon

By Asif Ahmed Srabon

Explore the life and impact of John F. Kennedy in ''John F. Kennedy: An American Icon'' by Asif Ahmed Srabon. This biography offers a comprehensive journey through JFK's remarkable life, his presidency, and his enduring influence on American history, making it a compelling read for those fascinated by this iconic figure.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookRix
• Release date: Sep 6, 2023
• ISBN: 9783755452133

Book preview

The Early Years: A Beacon of Hope

The Early Years typically refers to the early life and activities of President John F. Kennedy, who served as the 35th President of the United States from 1961 to 1963. Here's an overview of his early years:

Birth and Family Background: John Fitzgerald Kennedy was born on May 29, 1917, in Brookline, Massachusetts, into a wealthy and politically influential family. He was the second son of Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy. The Kennedy family was of Irish descent and had a history of political involvement.

Education: Kennedy attended the Choate School (now Choate Rosemary Hall) in Connecticut and later Harvard University, where he graduated in 1940. He wrote a thesis during his time at Harvard, which was later published as a book titled Why England Slept.

Military Service: During World War II, Kennedy served in the U.S. Navy. He commanded a patrol torpedo boat (PT-109) and became a war hero when his boat was rammed and sunk by a Japanese destroyer in the Pacific. Kennedy's leadership helped save the crew, and he received the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for his bravery.

Entry into Politics: After the war, Kennedy entered politics, running successfully for the U.S. House of Representatives in 1946 as a Democrat. He served three terms in the House before moving on to the Senate in 1952.

Marriage and Family: In 1953, Kennedy married Jacqueline Bouvier, becoming a prominent political couple. They had three children: Caroline, John Jr., and Patrick, who sadly died shortly after birth.

Health Issues: Throughout his early life, Kennedy struggled with various health issues, including back problems and Addison's disease, a condition affecting the adrenal glands. Despite these challenges, he maintained an active political career.

Presidential