Questions and Answers
Who won the presidency against Nixon in the closest election in the 20th century?
John F. Kennedy
What was the name of JFK's administration that focused on science, technology, and social relations?
New Frontier
Which of the following were Domestic Accomplishments of JFK? (Select all that apply)
Which of the following were Domestic Failures during JFK's administration? (Select all that apply)
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What were some Foreign Affair Failures during JFK's presidency? (Select all that apply)
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Which of the following were Foreign Successes during JFK's presidency? (Select all that apply)
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What happened during the Bay of Pigs invasion?
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What was the Cuban Nuclear Crisis?
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Study Notes
John F. Kennedy
- Won the presidency in 1960 against Richard Nixon in a historic close election, marking the closest in 20th century history.
JFK Administration
- Enacted the "New Frontier" program focusing on advancements in science, technology, and social relations.
Domestic Accomplishments
- Expanded Social Security coverage, increasing benefits for the elderly and disabled.
- Implemented a raise in the federal minimum wage, improving worker compensation.
- Advanced the Urban Renewal Program aimed at slum clearance and improvement of living conditions.
- Accelerated public housing projects to provide more affordable housing options.
- Lowered tariff barriers to promote trade and economic growth.
Domestic Failures
- Struggled to pass federal aid legislation for elementary and secondary education.
- Encountered challenges in providing medical care for the aging population under Social Security.
- Encountered difficulties in securing voting rights for African Americans and equal treatment initiatives.
- Significant civil rights advancements were stalled in Congress.
Foreign Affair Failures
- Oversaw the Bay of Pigs Invasion in Cuba, a failed attempt to overthrow Fidel Castro's government.
- Faced the Cuban Missile Crisis, a significant standoff with the Soviet Union over nuclear weapons placement.
- Increased military presence in Vietnam, leading to deeper U.S. involvement.
Foreign Successes
- Established the Peace Corps, encouraging volunteerism and humanitarian efforts abroad.
- Launched the Alliance for Progress, promoting economic development in Latin America.
- Signed the Limited Nuclear Test Ban Treaty to reduce nuclear weapons testing and promote global security.
Bay of Pigs Invasion
- Initiated on April 17, 1961, with a plan from Eisenhower's administration to overthrow Castro using 1,500 trained anti-Castro Cubans.
- The invasion failed as Castro's forces were prepared, leading to the capture and death of many rebels.
- Kennedy accepted full responsibility for the failed operation, marking a major foreign policy blunder.
Cuban Nuclear Crisis
- Occurred during a tense standoff over the Soviet installation of nuclear missiles in Cuba, aimed at deterring U.S. invasion.
- The crisis escalated tensions after U.S. installations of nuclear missiles in Turkey.
- Kennedy opted for a naval blockade rather than military intervention, ultimately reaching a deal with the Soviets to remove missiles from Cuba in exchange for a U.S. non-invasion pledge and removal of missiles from Turkey.
- This confrontation demonstrated U.S. resolve and ultimately resulted in the Soviets backing down.
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Description
Explore the significant accomplishments and notable failures of John F. Kennedy's presidency through these flashcards. Gain insights into his New Frontier initiatives, domestic policies, and the impact of his administration during a pivotal time in American history.
