John F. Kennedy's Milestones

John F. Kennedy was the 35th President of the United States, led the nation during the Cold War, inspired the space race, and was tragically assassinated in 1963.
1917

Birth

John Fitzgerald Kennedy was born in Brookline, Massachusetts, to Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy.

Family May 29, 1917
1927

Childhood and education

Attended Choate School and other private schools, excelling in academics and sports.

Education September 1, 1927 - June 1, 1935
1936

Harvard University

Studied at Harvard University, graduating with honors in government.

Education September 1, 1936 - June 1, 1940
1941

Military service

Served in the U.S. Navy during World War II; commanded PT-109 and was decorated for heroism.

Career September 24, 1941 - March 1, 1945
1947

Elected to U.S. House of Representatives

Served as U.S. Representative from Massachusetts's 11th district.

Career January 3, 1947 - January 3, 1953
1953

Elected to U.S. Senate

Served as U.S. Senator from Massachusetts.

Career January 3, 1953 - December 22, 1960

Marriage to Jacqueline Bouvier

Married Jacqueline Bouvier at St. Mary's Church in Newport, Rhode Island.

Relationship September 12, 1953
1956

Published 'Profiles in Courage'

Published 'Profiles in Courage,' winning the Pulitzer Prize for Biography.

Achievement January 1, 1956
1960

Elected U.S. President

Elected the 35th President of the United States; inaugurated January 20, 1961.

Achievement November 8, 1960 - January 20, 1961
1961

Established Peace Corps

Established the Peace Corps to promote international service and development.

Achievement March 1, 1961

Bay of Pigs Invasion

Authorized the Bay of Pigs Invasion, a failed attempt to overthrow Cuba's government.

Other April 17, 1961 - April 19, 1961
1962

Cuban Missile Crisis

Led the U.S. through the Cuban Missile Crisis, averting nuclear war.

Achievement October 16, 1962 - October 28, 1962
1963

Civil Rights Address

Delivered a landmark speech calling for civil rights legislation.

Achievement June 11, 1963

Assassination

Assassinated in Dallas, Texas, at age 46.

Other November 22, 1963