John F. Kennedy's Milestones
Birth
John Fitzgerald Kennedy was born in Brookline, Massachusetts, to Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy.
Childhood and education
Attended Choate School and other private schools, excelling in academics and sports.
Harvard University
Studied at Harvard University, graduating with honors in government.
Military service
Served in the U.S. Navy during World War II; commanded PT-109 and was decorated for heroism.
Elected to U.S. House of Representatives
Served as U.S. Representative from Massachusetts's 11th district.
Elected to U.S. Senate
Served as U.S. Senator from Massachusetts.
Marriage to Jacqueline Bouvier
Married Jacqueline Bouvier at St. Mary's Church in Newport, Rhode Island.
Published 'Profiles in Courage'
Published 'Profiles in Courage,' winning the Pulitzer Prize for Biography.
Elected U.S. President
Elected the 35th President of the United States; inaugurated January 20, 1961.
Established Peace Corps
Established the Peace Corps to promote international service and development.
Bay of Pigs Invasion
Authorized the Bay of Pigs Invasion, a failed attempt to overthrow Cuba's government.
Cuban Missile Crisis
Led the U.S. through the Cuban Missile Crisis, averting nuclear war.
Civil Rights Address
Delivered a landmark speech calling for civil rights legislation.
Assassination
Assassinated in Dallas, Texas, at age 46.