1960s America History

Election of 1960

John F. Kennedy (Democrat) vs. Richard Nixon (Republican); one of the closest elections in American history; JFK wins popular vote 49.7% to 49.5%.

New Frontier

JFK's pledge for America's path in foreign and domestic policy, exemplified by the creation of the Peace Corps.

Peace Corps

Established by JFK to promote world peace and friendship, involving American volunteers.

Whiz Kids

Nickname for JFK's cabinet filled with young, Ivy League-educated advisors.

Bay of Pigs

1961 CIA-backed plan to overthrow Fidel Castro, which failed after US military support was withdrawn.

Cuban Missile Crisis

The October 1962 confrontation between the US and the Soviet Union over missiles in Cuba, nearly leading to nuclear war.

October 22nd, 1962

Date when JFK ordered a naval blockade of Cuba in response to Soviet missile installations.

Khrushchev's Agreement

On October 28th, 1962, Khrushchev agrees to dismantle Soviet weapons in Cuba and promises not to attack.

The Great Society

Lyndon B. Johnson's vision aimed at ending poverty and inequality, and improving quality of life.

Zapruder Film

Famous footage of JFK's assassination; it fueled various conspiracy theories regarding the event.