Exploring the Hobbies and Interests of JFK: A Look into the Passionate Side of the President
John F. Kennedy, the 35th president of the United States, is known for his charismatic leadership style, visionary speeches, and stewardship during a time of great social and economic change. However, Kennedy was more than just a political figure. He had many hobbies and interests that contributed to his charismatic personality and allowed him to connect with people on a personal level. In this article, we will explore the hobbies and interests of JFK and shed light on the passionate side of the president.
Early Life and Hobbies
JFK was born into a wealthy family in Massachusetts in 1917 and was the second oldest of nine siblings. Growing up, Kennedy was very interested in sports and was an accomplished sailor, swimmer, and football player. He was also an avid reader and would spend hours reading books on history, politics, and philosophy. JFK was particularly interested in the life of Winston Churchill, a leader he admired.
Kennedy’s interest in politics was also apparent from an early age. In 1935, at the age of 18, he published an article in his school’s newspaper that criticized the isolationist foreign policy of the United States.
College Years and Political Interests
Kennedy went on to attend Harvard University where he continued to pursue his interest in politics. He started a political club called the “Harvard Liberal Union” and worked on the student newspaper. Kennedy also studied international relations, a field that would become central to his political career.
In 1941, JFK joined the U.S. Navy as a Naval Intelligence Officer where he served for four years during World War II. This experience reinforced his interest in international relations and prepared him for a career in politics.
Passion for Writing and Journalism
Kennedy’s passion for writing and journalism was evident throughout his political career. In 1940, he published a book titled “Why England Slept” that criticized the British government’s policy of appeasement towards Nazi Germany. The book became a bestseller and helped establish JFK as a prominent political figure.
Kennedy continued to write throughout his presidency, often collaborating with his speechwriters to craft compelling speeches that resonated with the American public. He was also a regular contributor to magazines such as The New Yorker and Newsweek.
Love for the Arts
In addition to his political and intellectual interests, JFK was also a lover of the arts. He was a collector of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art and was known to attend concerts and operas.
Kennedy’s love for the arts was evident in his support for the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency that provides funding for arts programs across the country. He also established the White House Fine Arts Program, which brought artwork from museums across the country to be displayed in the White House.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the hobbies and interests of JFK played a crucial role in shaping his personality and leadership style. His love for sports, books, and writing helped him connect with people on a personal level, while his passion for politics and international relations prepared him for a successful career in public service. JFK’s love for the arts also demonstrated his appreciation for creativity and human expression, qualities that he believed were essential for a thriving society.
