Since the beginning of the glorious post-World War II days to the dawn of the revolutionary 1960's, the United States had been led by an uninspiring, "ordinary" farmer who had led the country into yet another war, and a seemingly incompetent general primarily described as "grandfatherly," who had accomplished the better half of nothing in his eight years in office. Additionally, despite the continuing economic boom, the obsequious societal tension produced by the enduring Cold War, the escalating civil rights movement, and the alienation of the "Other America" helped to cultivate a nation in great need of hope and inspiration as it entered the tumultuous era of the 1960's. It was such a scenario which John F. Kennedy faced upon his presidential inauguration on January 20th, 1961; one which Kennedy's presence would, over the course of his three years in office, help to simplify. However, though his positive effects upon the country are undeniable, these effects resulted more from Kennedy's inspirational demeanor, rather than his lacking in both leadership skills and "presidential" character.
English: John F. Kennedy meeting with Nikita Khrus...
Lyndon B. Johnson taking the oath of office on Air...
English: John F. Kennedy, photograph in the Oval O...In his Character Above All article concerning Kennedy's presidency, Richard Reeves repeatedly compares Kennedy's character to that which the great Franklin D. Roosevelt displayed during his career. This is a fairly presumptuous thing to do, given the height to which history has rightly elevated Roosevelt - the conqueror of depression and war, who's mere image carried the ability to move citizens to tears in inspiration. However, Kennedy undeniably carried on some of Roosevelt's legacy as an inspiration; where Roosevelt inspired with blind optimism and courage, Kennedy inspired with seemingly youthful vigor. He was, after all, the youngest president to date, and his similarly youthful and intellectual cabinet, classic good looks, and beautiful family restored spirit in a dejected public, convinced that a young man of great ability...