50 Years

Fifty years ago today, as a 12-year-old, I watched JFK deliver his inaugural address. Lots of the politicians wore top hats but Kennedy was bare headed. I was watching because my teacher at the time, Mrs. Serene, said it would be historic and something I would remember forever. She was right.


At the time I didn't have any idea about what made a good speech and I didn't have any experience to draw on. This introduction to inaugural speeches set the bar of expectations high for future presidents.

Kennedy marked the passing of the torch of government to a new generation. The feeling was similar to the Obama inauguration.