The second of nine children from a well-to-do family in New England, John F Kennedy fought his way up to become the most powerful man on the planet. After claiming a narrow victory in the 1960 election, Kennedy and his glamorous wife, Jacqueline, led the country on a wave of optimism and energy. For many, he represented a vision of America at its brightest.

But what challenges did he have to overcome to reach office? What were the personal qualities that powered his rise? And just how golden was his presidency for America and the rest of the world? 

This is a Short History Of John F Kennedy.

A Noiser Production, written by Dan Smith. With thanks to Fredrik Logevall, Professor of History at Harvard University, and author of a multi volume biography of John F Kennedy.

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