John F. Kennedy's inauguration speech, January 1961.

Question

Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty.

This much we pledge — and more.

To those old allies whose cultural and spiritual origins we share, we pledge the loyalty of faithful friends. United there is little we cannot do in a host of cooperative ventures. Divided there is little we can do — for we dare not meet a powerful challenge at odds and split asunder…

In the long history of the world, only a few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour of maximum danger. I do not shrink from this responsibility — I welcome it. I do not believe that any of us would exchange places with any other people or any other generation. The energy, the faith, the devotion which we bring to this endeavor will light our country and all who serve it — and the glow from that fire can truly light the world.

And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.

Read the excerpt from John F. Kennedy’s inauguration speech in January 1961. Then answer the question.



In a paragraph of 3–5 sentences, describe what John F. Kennedy believed was an important responsibility for all Americans. How were his policy goals different from those of his predecessors? Include specific examples or quotes from the speech.

(4 points)

Answer 1

John F. Kennedy believed that an important responsibility for all Americans was to work towards the defense of freedom and the success of liberty, regardless of the challenges or hardships that may come their way. He emphasized the importance of unity among allies to achieve their common goals and warned against division in the face of powerful challenges. His policy goals differed from those of his predecessors in that he called on Americans to actively contribute to the country and the world, rather than relying solely on government assistance. Kennedy famously stated, "ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country," emphasizing the importance of individual action and responsibility.