JFK

John Fitzgerald Kennedy was born on May 29, 1917 at his family’s home in Brookline, Massachusetts. He was named in honor of Rose’s father, John Francis Fitzgerald, the Boston Mayor popularly known as Honey Fitz. Before long, family and friends called this small blue-eyed baby, Jack.

Jacqueline Lee Bouvier was born on July 28, 1929 in Southampton, New York. Her father, John, was a wealthy stockbroker on Wall Street whose family had come from France in the early 1800s. Her mother, Janet, had ancestors from Ireland and England.

The early 1960s were tumultuous times for the United States and the world. To gain an understanding of this era, this section of the website provides brief discussions of the significant events that occurred during President Kennedy's years in office. These essays are intended to give you an overview of challenges and issues that defined Kennedy's administration.

John F. Kennedy was so blessed with the gifts of reason, intellect and vitality that eloquence came naturally to him. He believed in the power and glory of words -- both written and spoken -- to win votes, to set goals, to change minds, to move nations. He consistently took care to choose the right words in the right order that would send the right message. Presented here are a selection of John F. Kennedy's most historic speeches.

Featured here is a collection of some of the best and most iconic photographs from the archives of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. Organized thematically, these galleries offer a visual presentation of key aspects of President Kennedy's public and family life.

Fifty years after President John F. Kennedy led the country, he leaves a legacy that continues to inspire us all. 

We are still responding to JFK.  His speeches ring in our ears, and his actions influence our lives.  Watch as leading figures in politics, science and innovation, the arts, diplomacy, civil rights talk about how JFK influenced them and their work.

Learn about John F. Kennedy's family, including his parents, Joseph P. Kennedy and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy, and his eight brothers and sisters, and their spouses.

Created in honor of the 50th anniversary of President Kennedy's administration, this new microsite is a rich, multimedia experience that provides teachers, scholars, students, and cultural institutions around the world with a wealth of material to spark a global conversation about the enduring ideals of President Kennedy.