US history

1960 Election

Marked a significant shift in political campaigning with the crucial role of television in shaping public perception.

Missile Gap

The perceived disparity between U.S. and Soviet missile capabilities, central to JFK's campaign.

Camelot

Idealized image of the Kennedy administration characterized by youth, vigor, and purpose.

Profiles in Courage

A book by JFK that won a Pulitzer Prize, though ghostwritten, reflecting complexities of his public persona.

Ask not what your country can do for you

Famous quote from JFK's inaugural address encapsulating his vision for civic responsibility.

Sit-in Movement

A nonviolent protest where African American students sought service at segregated lunch counters.

SNCC

Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee founded in 1960 to coordinate nonviolent protests against segregation.

Freedom Riders

Groups challenging segregation on interstate buses, facing brutal opposition in the South.

Birmingham Campaign

A pivotal campaign in 1963 aimed at ending segregation in Birmingham, drawing national attention.

James Meredith

First African American student admitted to the University of Mississippi, facing violent opposition.

Civil Rights Act of 1964

Legislation prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, or religion, marking a significant victory for civil rights.

Voting Rights Act of 1965

Law aimed at eliminating voting barriers for African Americans, leading to increased voter registration.

Earl Warren

Chief Justice known for key Supreme Court decisions on reapportionment ensuring 'One man, one vote'.

Due Process

Legal requirement that laws are applied fairly, reinforced by the 14th Amendment.

Bay of Pigs Invasion

Failed military operation aimed at overthrowing Fidel Castro in Cuba.

Cuban Exiles

Cuban nationals who participated in the Bay of Pigs Invasion, supported by the U.S. government.

Federal Oversight

U.S. government's authority to supervise voter registration in areas with a history of discrimination.

Addison's Disease

Condition affecting JFK's health, largely hidden from the public to maintain his image of vigor.

The New Frontier

JFK's ambitious domestic agenda aimed at tackling issues like poverty, education, and civil rights.

Televised Debates

First-ever public debates that highlighted the importance of appearance and media in elections.

Charisma

Kennedy's appealing personality that contrasted with Nixon's in televised debates.

Resistance from Congress

Challenges JFK faced in implementing his New Frontier initiatives due to differing political priorities.

Civil Rights Division

Part of the DOJ focused on enforcing federal civil rights laws and investigating discrimination cases.

Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC)

Civil rights organization that sometimes conflicted with SNCC over strategies and goals.

Baker v. Carr

Supreme Court case addressing reapportionment, ensuring electoral districts reflect population changes.

Mapp v. Ohio

Landmark case that ruled evidence obtained illegally could not be used in court.

Miranda v. Arizona

Case establishing Miranda rights informing individuals of their rights during police interrogations.

Civic Responsibility

The idea promoted by JFK that citizens should actively participate and contribute to their communities.

Youth Activism

The involvement of young people in the civil rights movement which revitalized efforts for racial justice.

Media Coverage

The role of news broadcast in shaping public opinion during the civil rights protests.

Desegregation

The process of ending the separation of different racial groups, particularly in public facilities.

Federal Marshals

Government officials who escorted James Meredith to the University of Mississippi, enforcing civil rights laws.

Impact of Cold War

The global context influencing JFK's foreign policy decisions and domestic priorities.