Time

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John F. Kennedy 35th President · Democratic January 20, 1961

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Speech

Inaugural Address

January 20, 1961

East Front of the Capitol

The oath and the address, from the East Front of the Capitol.

Vice President Johnson, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Chief Justice, President Eisenhower, Vice President Nixon, President Truman, reverend clergy, fellow citizens, we observe today not a victory of party, but a celebration of freedom—symbolizing an end, as well as a beginning—signifying renewal, as well as change. For I have sworn before you and Almighty God the same solemn oath our forebears prescribed nearly a century and three quarters ago.

Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.

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